The evaluation was based on a mixed methods research design that was largely qualitative, but which included some quantitative measures. The design was chosen to match the Elevate team's interest in finding in-depth information from both the patients and the hospital staff, on the possible impact of the programme on the quality of their lives, work and relationships while in the hospital. The data collection included: observations; individual interviews and in a focus group; a short questionnaire; a five-point rating scale undertaken pre and post an Elevate session.
Participants
Overall, 594 participants were observed in the 27 days of observations. Of these 338 were patients (57%), 213 hospital staff (36%) and 43 caregivers (7%);
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 48 participants, of these 23 were patients (57%), 23 hospital staff (38%) and 2 caregivers (5%);
The total number of respondents to the short questionnaire after the three concerts (from the concert series) was 86. Of these, 28 were patients (33%), 55 were members of the hospital staff (64%) and 3 were visitors (3%);
Three groups of participants were asked to complete a face scale before and after six Elevate sessions. The groups were patients (n=27), hospital staff (n=16) and the artists themselves (n=15);
Three focus groups were organized with the 9 Elevate artists, who were also interviewed individually. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the current ArtCare manager and her predecessor, the programme coordinator and the Chief Executive of Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust.
