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Singing for Memory

Singing for Memory Sessions are run by Grange Soroptimists on Thursdays at Allithwaite Community Centre for people and their carers who are living with dementia, memory issues or speech problems. The sessions have been running for 6 years.

We are sorry but sessions at Allithwaite CURRENTLY CANCELLED due to Corona virus, although we are running sessions via Zoom.  Zoom Sessions will continue until December 17th and then  resume on 7th January  after our Christmas break.

See below in red for future information  about sessions at Allithwaite when it becomes available.

Directions to Allithwaite community Centre included below.

Janice Welcoming everyone

Refreshments before the session

 

The Grange Soroptimists continue with their commitment to improve the lives of people  who are living with memory problems or have a diagnosis of dementia.  Research has shown that when communication through speech becomes difficult, people with dementia can still be actively involved in vocal expression through singing- especially through singing well known and familiar songs.  Singing for Memory largely uses familiar songs but also includes new pieces of music, so that it not only facilitates recall but also stimulates learning.

Members act as volunteers supporting the facilitators and it is a relaxed and friendly environment.  No singing experience or ability is required!

Anyone with memory problems, speech difficulty or a diagnosis of dementia is welcome and it is usual to be accompanied by a carer ( friend or family member)  but this can be discussed when ringing to  book.

SESSIONS ARE   at ALLITHWAITE COMMUNITY CENTRE ON A THURSDAY MORNING.

   It is fine to join part way through a term!

The sessions are weekly

Anyone interested in attending  needs to pre – book by contacting either  Isabel on 015395 36378 or Janice on 015395 58001.

 Don’t hesitate to ring if you have a query.

There is a nominal charge for the client and carer for each visit  ( currently £1.50 each) and in addition to the singing session there is an opportunity to chat during free  refreshments at the start and end of the session.

Photos taken at the sessions      (with permission of all attendees)

DIRECTIONS to ALLITHWAITE COMMUNITY CENTRE

Quarry Lane ( off Church Rd) Allithwaite, nr Grange over Sands LA11 7QJ see below

DIRECTIONS To ALLITHWAITE COMMUNITY CENTRE pdf

 

What to Expect at sessions

A WARM WELCOME!

SFM is a carefully structured programme using music therapy techniques. The format is the same each week so that there is a recognisable framework

Same opening and ending songs are used at each session – these are set markers, anchors, and lessen any stress at the start and end of the session. The session is led by the Singing Leader,  supported by an Administration Leader, and a group of trained volunteers who help with welcoming, refreshments, giving out song sheets and instruments and supporting the participants.

Welcome, registration and a half an hour of socialising, tea and coffee

An hour long session of singing with participants sat in a circle

Warm up exercises, breathing, relaxation and whole body preparation for singing

Everyone welcomed by name in a call and response song; followed by a welcome song

A familiar song from childhood

Learn new songs – It gives a real sense of achievement to learn something new

Part songs, rounds, layering and addition and subtraction songs – to increase concentration

Action songs – actions help with words but also stimulate body to brain connection

Passing objects around to help with peripheral awareness and left- right coordination

Reading clear lyrics and using pictures for association

Uses a variety of visual stimulation – bean bags, bubbles, parachute, pictures, percussion instruments, ribbon sticks

SFM can help to give purpose and focus to the morning and can lead to attendees having a better day.  For the carers it is a real life line and a highlight of the week.

If you would like to know more please contact either

Janice Carrick 015395 58001        janice.carrick2@btinternet.com   – Singing Leader

Isabel Huggett 015395 36378      huggett735@btinternet.com    –   Administration Leader

 

Donations for Singing for Memory

Donations for Singing Memory are always gratefully received and help us to keep entrance costs down and provide some extras for our clients, including a CD and  memory books .

Please send  cheques to our Treasurer Mrs Prue Kenley, 8 Yarlwell, Dalton in Furness LA15 8JJ  and  payable to Soroptimist Club Charity Account. The money will be ringfenced for Singing for Memory. Donations can also be handed to Janice Carrick ( Singing leader ) or isabel Huggettt ( Administrator)

Information for other Clubs thinking of setting up Singing for Memory sessions

Any club or organisation thinking of setting up Singing for Memory sessions here is some information  INFORMATION FOR OTHER CLUBS THINKING OF SETTING UP SINGING FOR MEMORY pdf

Awards

The group have been recognised by a number of awards including the Best Practice Award  for  Health  presented by Soroptimist International Great Britain and Ireland 2017 and again in 2019 and the Carnforth Award  2019 for the best long term project in the North West region of Soroptimist International Great Britain and Ireland.