With the growing number of older people across the UK there is an urgent need to tackle social isolation and ease challenges faced by the oldest members of our society.
Live music sessions enhance communication, trigger memories, combat loneliness and provide an outlet for creative energy which lasts long after sessions have taken place.
Live Music Now’s Songs and Scones programme brings together isolated and vulnerable older people who live on their own in the community for an afternoon of music, food and conversation. Each session begins with an informal participatory concert led by trained LMN musicians, followed by time for refreshments and socialising. Presenting the music in the form of a regular social event and giving everyone an active choice of programme provides an excellent forum to make new friends, build optimism, confidence and self-esteem.
Live Music Now works with a number of partner care organisations in Haringey who can provide transport for 85 isolated older members of the community to attend a monthly Songs and Scones concert at Alexandra Palace, a place many older local people have fond memories of visiting as children.
We are looking to raise £10,000 for a 12 month series. Your donation will help pay for musicians' training and performance, impact measurement and reminiscence work, catering and venue related costs (Alexandra Palace has offered us the venue at cost to themselves).
For a short film on the impact of Songs & Scones on people living in North Yorkshire click here.