Singing for the Brain The Carlisle Singing for the Brain project, developed by the Alzheimer’s Society, began in 2012 and now has 30 members. The service is available to people who have received a diagnosis of dementia and individuals may attend with a carer or family member. The Singing for the Brain project is based around the principles of music therapy and singing. Sessions are run by a music leader and volunteers encourage and support people to take part. Sessions include a variety of activities such as vocal warm-ups and a chance to sing both familiar and new songs. For those that want to and are able, there are also opportunities for dance and gentle movement. Each session begins with a welcome song with everyone mentioned by name. This fosters a strong sense of community, reduces anxiety, and encourages active participation, all of which are essential for ensuring a positive and engaging experience for all. Everyone is encouraged to complete a musical history form, to find out more about individual musical interests – maybe the first song that they ever bought, or music that means something special to them. There is also dedicated time for tea and coffee where people can relax, connect, and engage in informal conversations and meaningful social interaction. Importantly, the Singing for the Brain project, which is funded entirely by voluntary income, has helped people experiencing dementia to develop social networks. This in turn has helped to prevent social isolation, enhance communication and improve quality of life for all. Members appreciate the “nice atmosphere” created within the group and volunteers find their experiences enormously rewarding as summed up by one long-standing volunteer: CASE STUDY Singing for the Brain is a very fun interactive, and enjoyable session. As a volunteer, I have gained a lot of insight into people living with dementia. The effect that music has on people is amazing. It is a very uplifting experience. Laurie Brewis Trust Established in 2012, and based at Harker to the north of Carlisle, the Laurie Brewis Trust provides a day service that delivers social and educational opportunities for adults with a learning or physical disability. A wide range of activities are available: arts and crafts, IT and media, sports and exercise such as therapeutic seated aerobics sessions, an upcycling group, cookery, and a café service. The Trust’s Better Together project has created intergenerational community groups that bring together people from different backgrounds and demographics. Cumbria Community Foundation is supporting the project's facilitator, venue hire, and transport costs for three years. The Trust’s Eleanor Farquharson said: “Better Together has successfully mixed vulnerable groups that would, without the sessions, never meet or socialise. Having a three-year funding commitment from the Foundation has allowed us to get these groups established with regular attendees and provides us all with continuity.” When surveyed, 91% of attendees said that mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and loneliness had been reduced and 88% of people picked up by the transport provided said they would not be able to attend without it. One participant, a 75-year-old woman with limited mobility living in sheltered accommodation in Carlisle said: “It's brilliant! I don't have to worry about transport, it just picks me up. I love chatting to all my friends and have made new friends too. It’s a day trip out." Eleanor said: “For those who cannot attend in person due to overwhelming mobility issues, the Heathlands at Home project offers online activities and social opportunities. And our new Hubs project removes the barrier of transport issues by bringing the Trust’s projects to convenient rural locations around Carlisle.” CASE STUDY I have problems getting off my seat and walking over kerbs and without support I'm not sure I'd come. Better Together provide support workers to help me with this. I feel most empowered! Carlisle: Opportunities & Challenges 2025 52 53
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