The MindLab Project. Local Museums Supporting Community Wellbeing Before and After UK Lockdown

Catalyst is a science discovery centre and independent museum based in Widnes, United Kingdom. Since 2018, it has collaborated with mental health charity Mind Halton on MindLab, a science-inspired wellbeing project for local residents in an area with low access to mental health support. As twenty-first century museums are being increasingly regarded as community resources capable of producing valuable social impact, this article considers the role of museums in harnessing this potential to enhance community health and wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic. It reflects on the challenges encountered during this unprecedented lockdown, as well as the emerging opportunities, through the perspectives of those delivering MindLab.