Saffron Hall launches Together in Sound

Saffron Hall launches new dementia initiative with Anglia Ruskin University to deliver music therapy groups for those living with dementia, and their carers.

Following a successful pilot project earlier this year, Saffron Hall is delighted to announce a new working partnership with Anglia Ruskin University by launching a new series of 10-week music therapy groups to people living with dementia and their carers.

Starting in October 2017 and running for 10 weeks at the Salvation Army Hall in Saffron Walden, Together in Sound music therapy groups will bring the power of music to those living with dementia. There will be opportunities to sing, play and listen to live music together, with weekly sessions led by music therapists from Anglia Ruskin University and visiting professional musicians from Saffron Hall. The sessions will conclude with an informal sharing and celebration with friends and family toward the end of programme.

Saffron Hall is holding a taster session on Friday 22 September at the Salvation Army Hall in Saffron Walden, for anyone interested in participating in Together in Sound. The taster session is an opportunity to meet the Together in Sound team and decide together if the group is right for participants.

Please note: The taster session is only open to those living with dementia, and their carers, and numbers are limited. Saffron Hall expect the autumn groups to be oversubscribed, but will be running more groups in the spring.

Natalie Ellis, Director of Learning & Participation says:

“Dementia is a disempowering and isolating condition that is on the increase. With rates of dementia in Uttlesford forecast to rise by 80% by 2030, Together in Sound marks Saffron Hall’s long-term commitment to meeting social care challenges through innovative arts experiences. Music has the profound ability to unlock memories, and can be an incredible source of joy and comfort for people living with dementia and those around them. Our new partnership with Anglia Ruskin University’s Music for Health Research Centre gives us a real opportunity to make a positive difference to many people who are affected by the disease.”

Claire Molyneux, Lecturer in Music Therapy at Anglia Ruskin University and Registered Music Therapist for Together in Sound says:

“Research at Anglia Ruskin has shown the sustained benefits of a music therapy programme for people with dementia. Music therapy can help to break down the isolation often experienced by people living with dementia and their carers. Through providing opportunities for nonverbal communication, social interaction and engagement in creative experiences, we hope these music therapy groups will help to create a sense of belonging and community for participants.”

Anyone interested in attending the taster session can access an information sheet and application form at:
www.saffronhall.com/togetherinsound
or by calling 01799 588 545.

For more information please contact
Saffron Hall Learning & Participation:
togetherinsound@saffronhall.com / 01799 588533