Testimonials

‘This was a fun, stress-free creative session that was much appreciated. Thank you so much – this has taken my mind off my illness’

Andrea (patient), L2 arts & crafts session

‘A brilliant music session today in blue bay. My dad loves to sing and it brings his personality out. Music is amazing for people with dementia.’

Julie Mclaughlan (relative)

‘It’s fantastic that the hospital is doing these music sessions for patients.’

Ken Cole (patient), Brearley 7 singalong/dancing session

‘These sessions help to stimulate the brain, provide an opportunity to socialise, and have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing.

‘They also encourage patients to become involved and interact with staff. This means we get to know them on a more personal level.’

Dr. Katharine Fox, Brearley 6 arts & crafts session

‘Came into the ward to see June taking part in making Christmas cards. She looked so happy which was such a change after seeing her very down and depressed. Whoever organised this – thank you very much!’

Hazel Bellairs-Hill (visitor), Vickers 4 arts & crafts session

‘Research into music for patients with dementia is overwhelming and suggests it can trigger memories which have been long forgotten. The sessions we hold are run by musicians who really get patients involved. Even the patients who are perhaps bedbound can hear what’s going on. The music helps keep patients physically active as it’s associated with dance and the music we play is from an era which they can remember. Sometimes before these sessions, patients will struggle to put a single sentence together and it’s just incredible to see the sudden recall of words and how they sing along to the songs. The sessions not only benefit patients, but staff as well, because they have a massive impact on the ward as it makes it really fun and light-hearted.’

Katie Ashton, Matron, Brearley 7 music concerts

‘Today has given me fresh hope. It has been a change from being stuck in my room for the seventh week. Today is a celebration day to be able to get out of my room and enjoy. You’ve done a marvellous job. It was a lovely afternoon.’

Dorothy Wright, Brearley 6 arts & crafts session

‘With everything I have been through, it was great to get my mind off it and smile.’

Jade Forber (patient)

‘Nice friendly environment, uplifting atmosphere, felt you weren’t in hospital.’

Kirsty Buttery (visitor)

‘Passed a much needed hour for your headspace. We laughed, we sang and talked. Hope this hits off and keeps going. Can’t wait for next time. Thank you.’

Lynn Forber (relative)

‘Doing this activity and singing these songs is much more meaningful than just wearing a poppy. So thank you very much.’

Agnes Kirchner (patient), Brearley 5 arts & crafts session

‘We worked with the Arts in Health team to establish a fitting memorial to recognise our amazingly brave families and their loved ones. We are thrilled with the final artwork which is a beautiful and colourful installation to recognise, remember and reflect on a donor’s brave and generous gift.’

Clare Croxall, Specialist Nurse, Organ Donation installation

‘The artwork dramatically improved the physical environment for our long-term patients and received very positive feedback from patients and relatives.’

Duncan Tragheim (Clinical Service Manager), Critical Care

‘It was really interesting to experience this project as a patient, and it has been really touching to hear about the impact it has had on people. There is lots of evidence about the impact of music for health and wellbeing, and we are really proud that we have the artworks as a visual reminder. I was so impressed at the level of confidence and such positive feedback. Listening to the recordings made me feel very emotional as I was just so impressed with what has been achieved in such a short time.’

Dr Harriet Crook, Lead Clinical Scientist, In & Out of Hospital music workshops and performance