The Shine a Light Choir is gearing up for their final performance following weeks of practising.
The choir has met weekly for the past two months and has been a place for people living with dementia and their carers to meet and sing, which has boosted their wellbeing, communication and connection via the power of music.
The choir will perform to loved ones and supporters on Tuesday 21 November, at their base at West Bromwich Methodist Church, where they will sing a repertoire of their favourite songs from throughout their meetings.
Funded by the Black Country Brighter Lives, the Trust charity, the choir has made a real impact on the individuals who have come along, who are now all joined in a community. They have also learned vital breathing and vocal techniques to help them in their everyday lives.
Choirs for people living with dementia have been shown to reduce social isolation, give choir members a voice and help to reduce stigma.
Dr Michael Ridley Dash, a principal clinical psychologist at BCHFT, has been instrumental in setting up the choir. He said: “It has been wonderful the see the Shine A Light choir develop over the weeks, and the friendships and sense of community it has created.
“I would like to thank everyone who has taken the step to come along to the group and made the choir possible.
“I would also like to extend a huge thank you to Sarah Jones, who has led the choir with compassion, kindness and fun.”