The European Erasmus+ project+titling Snapshot – Supportive Network for Optimizing Cancer Survivorship Through Photography The goal is to enhance the emotional well-being and quality of life of cancer patients/survivors by harnessing the therapeutic benefits of art, specifically photography. At the same time, it aims to facilitate the process of social reintegration, fostering a sense of connection and community beyond the boundaries of cancer survival.
Recent scientific data consistently show that supportive care interventions, including art therapy, can yield positive outcomes for cancer patients/survivors. In this context, the specific goals of the project are:
-The development of a theoretically and empirically grounded methodology for a therapeutic photography intervention aimed at cancer patients, as well as the creation of a comprehensive program that includes educational materials and tools tailored to the needs and diversity of the target population, designed to be implemented both in-person and online.
-The implementation of a pilot therapeutic photography intervention, conducted both in-person and online, with pre- and post-assessment, involving an intervention group and a control group.
-The evaluation of the effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of these interventions, as well as the exploration of socio-demographic and other factors related to the outcomes, using both qualitative and quantitative methods.
-The development of a framework for the expansion of the therapeutic photography intervention.
-Increasing awareness and promoting the importance of integrating art therapy within the framework of social prescribing.
Taking into consideration the upcoming results, SNAPSHOT aims to enhance interpersonal skills and improve self-esteem, self-awareness, emotional well-being, and quality of life (QoL) of cancer patients/survivors. At the same time, it seeks to reduce symptoms related to anxiety and depression, as well as physical manifestations such as fatigue and pain.
Furthermore, the project aims to contribute to the social inclusion and connection of cancer patients/survivors through the creation of networks and relationships. Advocacy efforts by all involved stakeholders and the synergies that will be developed will facilitate the adoption and integration of supportive care practices into health systems—an especially important development, as the concept of social prescribing is the subject of active political debate. Finally, the produced material will be made readily available online, enabling broad and interdisciplinary use of the content.
Partners
The Snapshot project actively involves the organizations Eyes of Light – Art in Health (Greece) and G&M Projects (Belgium), bringing valuable expertise in the fields of therapeutic photography and mental health, respectively. Their contribution is a key factor in the successful implementation of the project, as it enhances scientific validity, artistic sensitivity, and psychosocial understanding. Through their experience, the interventions are ensured to be meaningful, feasible, and tailored to the real needs of individuals with cancer experience. This collaboration strengthens the cross-sectoral dimension of the project, building bridges between health, art, and social care, with the ultimate goal of improving quality of life and fostering psychosocial empowerment for beneficiaries.
Kick–off meeting
On Friday, April 4th, the in-person kick-off meeting of the Snapshot project took place in Athens, with the participation of all partners. During the meeting, the foundation was laid for the project's journey. Key objectives, strategic approaches, the communication plan, and the next steps for its successful and coordinated implementation were discussed.
