Introducing

Dr Anna Dadswell

Research Fellow at Anglia Ruskin University

Dr Anna Dadswell is a Research Fellow at Anglia Ruskin University with expertise in using feminist, qualitative, participatory, and creative methodologies to research community mobilisation and health. Much of Anna’s research has focused on the connection between arts and health, particularly how engaging in arts and cultural activities can promote social relationships and strengthen communities.

Anna is a member of the Cultural Essex Steering Group after leading a research project with Culture Chelmsford exploring culture and health social prescribing in Chelmsford. Further relevant research projects have investigated how artists and care homes can work together to embed creativity in caring for older people across Essex, and the potential role of community volunteers in delivering arts in nature experiences to tackle mental health inequalities in primary schools across Cambridgeshire.

Beyond this, Anna is interested in activism to protect and promote arts and cultural participation for everyone.

Dr Anna Dadswell

Research Fellow at Anglia Ruskin University

“Our research has highlighted that participating in arts and cultural activities can have meaningful impacts for individuals and communities but making these opportunities inclusive and accessible to everyone requires collaboration across sectors. Working in Essex, I have seen the creativity, commitment and innovation of people working in the creative sector, voluntary sector, and health and social care and the growing momentum around delivering, supporting, and advocating for arts and culture to promote health across Essex is really exciting.”