Oxford Health Arts Partnership is seeking an experienced dance artist to deliver 24 inclusive movement-to-music sessions for adult inpatients at Didcot Community Hospital. Working with ward staff, the artist will provide safe, enjoyable and adaptable sessions that support wellbeing, confidence and rehabilitation. The six-month commission builds on Move to Health programmes in other Oxfordshire community hospitals.
Purpose and aims
- Offer high-quality creative movement during patients’ hospital stays.
- Support mobility, confidence, wellbeing and social connection.
- Complement clinical rehabilitation through accessible, person-centred activity.
- Gather learning and feedback to inform future provision in Didcot.
The commission will involve:
- 24 weekly sessions over approximately six months for adult inpatients.
- Thursday mornings, 10am–midday, including set-up.
- Seated and adaptable creative movement using appropriate music.
- Brief attendance records, reflective notes and patient or staff feedback.
Artist role and responsibilities
- Plan and deliver accessible, engaging movement-to-music sessions.
- Adapt activities to patients’ mobility, presentation, confidence and energy levels, following clinical guidance.
- Work closely with ward staff and the Oxford Health Arts Partnership project lead.
- Maintain patient dignity, confidentiality, professional boundaries and safe practice.
- Report any concerns, incidents, risks or delivery changes promptly.
- Provide brief attendance information, reflections and feedback.
- Submit invoices directly to Didcot League of Friends.
Clinical decisions and hands-on care remain the responsibility of Oxford Health staff; the artist must not provide clinical advice or treatment.
Artist experience and skills
- Professional practice in dance, movement or participatory arts.
- Experience of inclusive facilitation and adapting activity for varied needs.
- Experience with older adults, rehabilitation or people with additional needs.
- Understanding of safeguarding, confidentiality, consent, professional boundaries and risk.
- Reliable, organised and able to work collaboratively in a clinical setting.
Experience in a health or care setting is desirable. Knowledge of Didcot community networks is welcome but not essential.
Fee
The total project budget is £2,400 for 24 two-hour artist visits, including set-up, proportionate session planning and brief evaluation.
Before delivery begins
- DBS, identity, right-to-work and reference checks where required by the Trust.
- Relevant induction and essential role-specific training.
- Compliance with relevant Oxford Health policies and local procedures.
- Appropriate public liability and professional insurance.
Timeline
Application deadline: 19 October 2026
Shortlisting: Online conversations after the deadline - Date TBC
Start: As soon as contracting and Oxford Health checks are complete
Delivery: Approximately six months
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