Spring into song: Shine a Light dementia singing group returns for music, memories and togetherness
The much‑loved Shine a Light dementia singing group is returning with a brand‑new series of sessions from Monday, February 23, offering people living with dementia and their carers the chance to experience the uplifting power of music in a warm, welcoming community.
Supported by Black Country Brighter Lives, the charity of Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, the group provides a space for people to meet others, have fun and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of singing together. The project is funded entirely through charitable donations, helping to support the wellbeing of patients, families and communities across the Black Country.
Led by experienced singing teacher and community choir leader Sarah Jones, who brings over 25 years of expertise, the sessions are also supported by clinicians and health professionals from the Trust. This gives carers the opportunity to access advice and learn more about local support available for people living with dementia.
The new programme of sessions will take place on Mondays, 11am–1pm, at YMCA West Bromwich, 38 Carters Green, West Bromwich B70 9LG, beginning February 23.
A choir that brings confidence, companionship and joy
Participants from previous Shine a Light groups have spoken powerfully about the impact the sessions have had on their wellbeing.
Gary, a previous member, said: “When you get to a certain age and you're not as well as you used to be, to come to a place like this and to be able to do things that you did a long time ago, it rekindles a lot of memories. It gives you confidence, gives you a feeling of I am still something. I am still, you know, worthwhile.
“I haven't sung in a long time, apart from in church, but it has felt really special being with every one of these people, because they are very supportive from the moment you walk in, to the moment you walk out.”
Jenny, who attended with her dad, Bob, shared how meaningful the sessions were for them:
“We love the companionship and really enjoy coming into somewhere where people have got similar challenges and are just coming together to make the best of a situation. It’s just so joyful. And particularly for us, something to do that's not a task, not an appointment, not a medical thing, but something fun to do with dad.
“There's no dumbing down, everybody's spoken to with dignity and respect and the breathing exercises and everything is like a proper choir.”
Uniting together creates a sense of community
Choir leader Sarah Jones said: “Uniting together to sing creates not only fellowship and a sense of community, but it has physical and psychological benefits for everyone. The breathing, posture and vocalising exercises required for singing provide a great wellbeing boost.
“Music, and its connection to our past and community, is uplifting and can have a calming effect for people living with dementia. I have seen the effect it has made on people who have previously taken part, and I look forward to sharing this with more people this spring.”
The power of giving: donations help Shine a Light singing group thrive
“It is wonderful to see how the Shine a Light group has developed and grown into a real community.” says Manisha Patel, charity engagement officer.
“Every session we run is only possible because of the generosity of our donors, and I want to thank every person who has helped bring this project to life. Their support has directly enabled people living with dementia and their carers to experience moments of joy, connection and confidence through music.
“We would love to introduce Shine a Light groups across the Black Country, but we can only do this with the continued kindness of individuals, groups and organisations who donate to our Brighter Lives Charity. Your support genuinely changes lives, helping us offer more people the chance to feel the warmth, belonging and wellbeing that this group brings.”
The Trust encourages more people to get involved through fundraising or volunteering, helping even more individuals across the Black Country to lead brighter, healthier lives.
If you would like to attend, please contact bchft.brighterlives@nhs.net.
To find out more about Black Country Brighter Lives and how you can support our work, visit: blackcountryhealthcare.nhs.uk/support-our-charity.
