The use of art in hospitals can provide therapeutic benefits for patients and carers, as well as improving the working environment for staff and building links between hospitals and local communities. This handbook contains guidance and practical information aimed at those wishing to set up their own arts projects in a healthcare setting or to enhance existing programmes. It covers the basics of setting up and running an ongoing arts programme, purchasing and borrowing art works, setting up changing exhibitions and commissioning artists, integrating arts into Private Finance Initiative schemes, working with artists and the effective use of publicity. Another publication 'The art of good health: using visual arts in healthcare' is also available (ISBN 0113224982) which contains examples of the creative application of visual arts in healthcare environments and examines its history and benefits to patients and staff alike.