Led by comedian Carly Smallman

A free trial bringing laughter-based workshops to Westminster women is launching this week, backed by comedian Carly Smallman.

It is the first in a series of nationwide trials for Comedy on Prescription,  health organisation Craic Health’s bid to make comedy and laughter-based therapy available on the NHS. 

The Stand Up and Shine workshops combine laughter, storytelling and creative play in a supportive environment, aiming to show that comedy can be a useful healthcare intervention.

‘These workshops aren’t about being funny or performing,’ said Smallman, ‘They’re about creating a safe, joyful space where women can reconnect with themselves and each other.’

‘I’ve spent decades working in comedy, and I’ve seen how laughter unlocks confidence, connection and relief– especially in tough moments.’

The trial builds on earlier pilots delivered across Westminster in 2024 and 2025. A total of 98 per cent of participants  waned more Comedy-on-Prescription events and over 91 per cent said they would attend future sessions.

Louisa Jackson, of Craic Health, said the evidence was compelling. ‘Mental ill health is the defining health challenge of our time. Healthcare systems can’t afford to ignore interventions that are low-cost, preventative, and people genuinely engage with.’ In England alone, mental ill health is said to cost an estimated £300 billion per year.

Mick Clarke, chief executive of The Passage Resource Centre, which is hosting the sessions, said: ‘Delivered in a structured and respectful way, laughter can help people feel included, supported and better able to cope,’ he said.

Space on the six-week Stand Up and Shine programme is limited. Eligible Westminster women aged 18 and over can register free at https://craic.health/. 

Participants will be asked about their wellbeing before and after sessions to help track mood changes and build the evidence base for comedy as a preventative health intervention.

Published: 5 Feb 2026