SINGING FOR THE BRAIN LEADER

I have been employed by the ALZHEIMER’S SOCIETY as a SINGING FOR THE BRAIN LEADER since JULY 2012. This is a service which uses singing to bring people together in a friendly and social environment.

The idea was first piloted in 2003 in Berkshire and gradually funding became available nationally. The model has been adopted as an example of ‘Best Practice’ by the Alzheimer’s Living with Dementia Group.

People with Dementia respond well to vocal expression through singing especially with well known and familiar songs and even new one’s. As well as being a therapeutic tool the model has been designed to help people with Dementia and their families. It enables them to feel part of society where they have a right to artistic and social stimulation.

My role is to provide a facilitated structured group session for people with Dementia and their carers designed around the principles of music therapy and singing. The fun sessions include a warm up and farewell and incorporate social interaction, peer support, engagement and active participation.

As I work in Bury, Lancashire I operate primarily from two places in the locality: PARKHILLS COMMUNITY CENTRE in Bury and THE ELMS COMMUNITY CENTRE in Whitefield. Volunteers assist me at both venues. I have also performed this role in Prestwich, Ramsbottom and Bolton. My Piano Accordion is a perfect accompaniment wherever I sing.

As an employee of the Alzheimer’s Society I possess an up to date CRB Certificate and have completed Dementia Awareness training.