A proposal to incorporate comedy into healthcare has emerged as a promising strategy to alleviate pressure on the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. Dr. Simon Opher, a Labour MP and pioneer of social prescriptions, has suggested that integrating comedy into treatment plans could substantially reduce costs and waiting lists within the NHS. Initial trials of an NHS-supported social prescribing scheme, which included stand-up shows and workshops, reported an impressive average of 44 percent improvement in participants’ emotional wellbeing, according to Craic Health.
These comedy interventions specifically aim to assist individuals experiencing loneliness, isolation, and vulnerability. Dr. Opher, who represents Stroud and chairs the Creative Health All-Party Parliamentary Group, emphasized the importance of meeting people where they are. He stated, “Comedy engages groups who don’t always connect with traditional services. The emerging data from these trials suggests genuine potential for this scheme to lower costs and reduce waiting list numbers if integrated within the NHS.”
The trials, conducted over five pilot events in London during 2024 and 2025, yielded a remarkable response, with over 91 percent of participants expressing a desire to attend future sessions. In light of this success, Craic Health is set to launch a new six-week workshop series titled Stand Up and Shine, specifically targeting women. These sessions will be led by comedian Carly Smallman, who aims to create a “safe, joyful space where women can reconnect with themselves and each other.”
Louisa Jackson, founder of Craic Health, highlighted the urgency of adopting low-cost, preventive interventions. She remarked, “The NHS can’t afford to ignore interventions that are low-cost, preventative, and people genuinely engage with.” Jackson further stated, “It’s said laughter is the best medicine, and integrating comedy into healthcare via NHS social prescribing is no joke. Mental ill health is the defining health challenge of our time.”
The upcoming series is funded by One Westminster, a charity that previously contributed a £5,000 grant for the initial trials. Rachel Blake, Labour MP for Cities of London and Westminster, underscored the significance of creative, community-led initiatives like comedy on prescription. She noted, “It’s encouraging to see strong partnerships, evidence-led delivery, and ambition to scale what works.”
The sessions will be hosted at The Passage Resource Centre in Westminster, culminating in an optional celebratory showcase at the Royal Albert Hall in March 2024. Mick Clarke, chief executive of The Passage, expressed pride in supporting comedy on prescription, stating, “It creates a safe, welcoming connection. Delivered in a structured and respectful way, laughter can help people feel included, supported, and better able to cope.”
James Ainscough, chief executive of the Royal Albert Hall, also voiced support for the initiative, emphasizing the venue’s role in fostering memorable experiences. He remarked, “We are incredibly proud to be supporting comedy on prescription by hosting a celebratory showcase which recognizes participants and supports an evidence-led model with real potential to scale.”
As the NHS faces ongoing challenges, the integration of innovative approaches like comedy prescriptions may provide a much-needed boost to mental health initiatives, offering hope for improved wellbeing across communities.
