I , along with my son Joe Kelly are running in the Warrington Half Marathon on September 23rd 2017 for Music & Memory . This group is about using singing to bring together and help people affected by dementia in Warrington.

We meet fortnightly with 35 - 40 people attending regularly, all aged between 55 -80, with an approx. 50/50 split between male and female attendees. Our activities last for 2 hours and we are a social support group where people come together to enjoy music. “Music & Memory” is all about using music and singing to bring people together. Music and Memory is a group run by volunteers , all with a passion to support people affected by dementia. The volunteers offer support and empathy and most have had personal experience of dementia .People who are at their own homes living with dementia may sometimes never meet other people in similar circumstances and the happy environment created improves their lives and well-being. Listening to music and signing along to songs they can remember stimulates them so much that they look forward to the next meeting. The happier and more self-confident they become can prolong their independence and reduce the need to be placed in care. These meetings are also very beneficial for carer’s and family members who also have the opportunity to meet other people in similar circumstances and this can give some respite, and provide the opportunity to develop new friendships and support networks.

Here are a few comments from our group members that highlight the positive impact the group has on their lives:

We both enjoy the friendliness and the warmth shown to us at the meetings.

Being able to discuss issues with other carers`.

`Fun, Friendly, Happy, Caring, Acceptance, Belonging.

` `Happy!` `

Makes us feel welcome`

I look forward to the Monday afternoons at the Music & Memory group. I often come in feeling low but leave feeling better because I meet others doing the same carers job and it makes me realise I am not alone-Thanks to you xx` `

Feeling of wellbeing and companionship

` `Music & Memory group volunteers make the afternoon enjoyable and offer friendship` `

Likeminded companions

` `Singing brings a little sunshine back into my life. Always look forward to Music & Memory`

Visit us on Facebook :

https://www.facebook.com/Music-Memory-Warrington-142826016158766/