Community choir brings music, memories and joy to Sedgley Court Care Home
Residents at Sedgley Court Care Home in Dudley were treated to a heart-warming musical performance recently when the Sedgley Townswomen’s Guild Choir, also known as the TG Singers, paid a special visit.
Eighteen members of the choir visited the home recently, filling Sedgley Court with song, laughter and community spirit. The visit included a lively singing performance, with residents encouraged to join in by singing along, shaking maracas and taking part in actions – all of which were met with enthusiastic participation.
The TG Singers regularly perform at local care homes as part of the Townswomen’s Guild’s active role in supporting the community and have previously visited Sedgley Court. However, this particular performance was especially meaningful, as it was arranged because one of the choir members’ fathers is now a resident at the home.
Helen Clark, a relative of a resident living at the home, who helped organise the visit alongside the Sedgley Court team, said: “While visiting my dad at Sedgley Court, I asked Emma if she would like our choir to sing there as part of the home’s new activities programme. Dad had never seen me sing in the choir before, so it was really special for him to be in the audience – although it was also emotional, as my late mum used to be a member of the choir.”
Helen’s father, Jeremy Clark, has been living at Sedgley Court for just under 12 months following a period of declining physical and mental health after the loss of his wife of 63 years.
“My dad has always been fiercely independent and never accepted help easily,” Helen explained. “After losing my mum, he struggled to cope both physically and mentally and couldn’t face staying in the family home they’d shared for 45 years. I chose Sedgley Court because of its countryside location, its hotel-like feel rather than a traditional care home, and the friendly, caring staff.”
She added: “After the initial shock, with the level of care and respect he received, he soon began to adjust. With the help and support of Emma Chaffe, Home Manager, and her wonderful team, he improved both mentally and physically and became as independent as possible.”
The visit proved deeply moving for residents and families alike, with many visibly enjoying the performance. Jeremy himself became emotional during the visit, reflecting on memories of his late wife and the music they once shared.
Sedgley Court Care Home Manager Emma Chaffe said the visit perfectly captured the importance of meaningful activities and community connections within the home, adding that the choir members were “absolutely lovely and incredibly supportive of others in the local community.”
Following his progress at Sedgley Court, Jeremy is now preparing to return home, having regained enough confidence and independence to live on his own once again.
