Thanks to Caroline for sharing this great news from Independent Arts. Ed
The increasingly popular Singabout project is expanding in delivery across the Isle of Wight, with the latest group being launched in Ventnor.
However, the Ventnor group is taking a slightly different approach to the existing sessions in Freshwater, Newport and Ryde, which are delivered in community settings.
Following a funding grant from the Southern Housing Group, Independent Arts will deliver the popular activity in two residential settings managed by the funder: Knights Court and Byrnhill Grove.
Pilot sessions to be launched
The launch of this group will see the sessions being piloted on an alternate basis, with the free singing groups being delivered in Knights Court one week, and Byrnhill Grove the next.
SingAbout is based on the recognised ‘Singing for the Brain’ programme – a form of therapy specifically developed for Alzheimer’s and other dementia sufferers and people whose brain functions are affected perhaps by stroke or injury.
Recognised therapy
It is a trademarked therapy which has gained much recognition through studies undertaken on patients and is recognised by the NHS as the most effective form of complementary therapy for this group.
In addition to this, the sessions have a wider benefit to both carers and participants by providing improving wellbeing.
Singabout is a social singing activity based on a recognised music therapy. It can help improve memory, breathing, movement, speech and confidence. It’s fun, and a fantastic opportunity to get out and meet people. No musical background is necessary and everyone is welcome.
Delighted to be offering sessions in another Island location
Caroline Ash, Project Manager for Independent Arts said, “We are delighted to be offering the SingAbout sessions in another Island location, and in a different setting. Our community groups have gone from strength to strength since we launched SingAbout in March 2011, and the grant and support we have received from Southern Housing Group has allowed us to deliver the Ventnor group in these residential settings. However, the group is still open to everyone and members of the public are welcome to come along to Knights Court and Byrnhill Grove to join in the fun!”
Where and when
The Ventnor SingAbout sessions take place on Friday mornings from 10.30am – 12.30pm and are open to everyone.
Sessions are completely free, and refreshments are provided. The session timetable is available from the Independent Arts office on 822437 or on the website www.independentarts.org.uk
Established in 1987, Independent Arts is a registered charity dedicated to improve the quality of life for people living on the Isle of Wight, particularly those with special needs, the disadvantaged and the elderly, by providing access to exciting and stimulating creative activities.
Image: Sam Howzit under CC BY 2.0
