Join me on a personal journey to make a difference!

In mid- June this year, I will be walking across Hadrian's Wall - c.85 miles, which will take a week, with family members Mike and Jill. Many of you will know that my sister Jill is also a musician, who first told me about music therapy, whilst I was doing my music degree. We had both already seen at a personal level how music could be a powerful medium for physical, emotional, intellectual, aesthetic, and communicative benefits, whilst at boarding school, and within our family.

The Music Therapy Charity funds essential research and training which enables better access to music therapy, for those who need it, nationally and internationally. Our previous research has demonstrated that music therapy is beneficial for many, including for those living with dementia, parents and babies in neo-natal units, those with mental health issues, refugees, children and adults living with autism. Our target is to raise £10,000 by 30th June 2026 to fund our next round of small grants.

Now, there is scientific research showing the benefits of music therapy, but much more is needed. I am delighted, as current Chair of this charity, to tell you that in one of our funded projects, music therapy sessions in carehomes reduced agitation for people living with dementia, in another EEG measures showed synchrony in the brains of the therapist and participant, whilst music therapy is in progress, in another, the benefits of music therapy in end of life care are shown, and in another the benefits for children with language delay and autism are shown.

By supporting this campaign, you are advocating for a future where more individuals can access these life-changing therapies. Your generosity will help finance groundbreaking research that advances the profession and broadens its reach. I invite you to join me in this endeavour. Together, we can help towards this year's £10,000 target and create lasting impact. Please consider donating today if you can.