Thanks to Caroline for sharing details of this screening. Ed
Update: Thanks to Wendy Varley, one of the Trustees of Independent Arts for letting us and readers know that the transmission date has changed for the episode including Island charities. It will now be screened at 8pm on Sunday 6th October.
Newport-based charity, Independent Arts will feature in a documentary due to be screened on the Community Channel this weekend. The programme highlights individuals, groups and organisations which make Britain brilliant, and SingAbout, the local singing groups run by Independent Arts across the Island, will feature.
Filmed in Newport
The programme features a number of projects which have received a grant from The Big Lottery Fund, and so takes a look at the efforts of charities such as Independent Arts, and the difference their work makes to people’s lives.
Filmmakers visited the Island earlier this month, and spent an afternoon at the Newport SingAbout group, interviewing staff and filming participants in action.
‘Singing for the Brain’ therapy
SingAbout is based on the ‘Singing for the Brain’ therapy, which was developed specifically for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementia sufferers, as well as people whose brain functions are affected perhaps by a stroke or injury. ‘Singing for the Brain’ is a trademarked therapy which has gained much recognition through studies undertaken with patients. It is recognised by the NHS as the most effective form of complementary therapy for this group and it works by stimulating, improving and maintaining the brain’s neurological pathways.
SingAbout sessions have a wider benefit to both carers and participants by providing group activity and encouraging social interaction. The sessions require group participation, and sometimes songs will be sung in rounds. Many of the songs require gentle hand actions or chair-based movements. Some are specifically chosen to invoke memories; some are previously unknown so participants are encouraged to memorise the words.
SingAbout very popular
Caroline Ash, Project Manager at Independent Arts said,
“We are really pleased to have the opportunity to feature in the Brilliant Britain programme, and demonstrate how brilliant our participants and volunteers are.
“We know how popular and valued SingAbout is to those that attend, and it is really exciting to share that with a wider audience.”
Island organisations also featured
Other Island organisations due to feature in the programme include The Footprint Trust, Scarrots Lane Bakery, the Garlic Farm and IW Adventure Activities.
The programme airs on The Community Channel at 8pm on Sunday 29th September. The Community Channel can be found on Sky 539, Virgin Media 233 and Freeview 87.
For more information about SingAbout and how you and get involved, please contact Caroline Ash, Project Manager at Independent Arts on 822437 or at [email protected]
