£3,000 grant for Songs for the Memory group

THE Songs for the Memory group has been recognised for the contribution it makes to local people living with memory loss and dementia by being awarded a grant of £3,000 from the Mayor’s fund. 

The grant will cover most of its costs for the coming year, for which the group is very grateful.

The group usually numbers about 20 people and is currently welcoming new members.

A spokesperson said, “We are inviting people with memory loss and their carers to get in touch and to come along to a taster session.”

The group meets on Tuesdays from 1.30pm – 3.00pm at the Masonic Hall, North Parade, Frome.

Starting with tea or coffee and a chance to chat, the group then gathers to sing a range of songs from the Beatles to Frank Sinatra and those ever-popular tunes from shows and musicals. Music and words are provided and there is something for everyone. One carer said, “I feel it’s the one time in the week that my husband really comes alive.”

One of the members said they enjoyed the “friendliness and a nice cup of tea.”

Songs for the Memory is led by experienced professional music therapist Julie Britton, supported by several volunteers. They are all keen to point out the physical and mental benefits of singing for people with dementia that lots of medical research confirms. It encourages people to breathe more deeply, to engage their brains and voices and to have fun in a stimulating environment.

“We all surprise ourselves when we remember the words of a song we last sang or heard as children,” said the spokesperson. “Often it takes just a few opening bars of music to trigger memories too. It’s amazing to see people recalling the words to songs they listened to, or sang many years ago and so rewarding to notice them tapping their feet and smiling.

“We ask that people come with a carer; it’s a great way of meeting other people in similar caring roles.  There’s no charge, though we have a box for donations.

“If you would like to find out more about this friendly, lively group, or know of someone who might benefit from going to a ‘Songs for the Memory’ session, please get in touch with Janet on 01373 466367 or 07747 544 773.

“Give it a go!  Banish the autumn blues with a rousing song or two. We hope to welcome you soon!”