Local councillor sings the praises of Halstead care home’s dementia-friendly choir

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Oct 08, 2019

A care home in Halstead welcomed a local councillor to take part in its new dementia-friendly choir.

Residents from Care UK’s Colne View, on Dame Mary Walk, welcomed Councillor Angela Kilmartin, chairman of Braintree District Council, along to Halstead’s dementia-friendly choir. The initiative, which has been created by Colne View, The Empire Theatre and The Big Sing Soul charity, takes place every Tuesday, from 1:45pm-3:45pm, and has been designed to encourage those living with dementia, alongside their family and friends, to meet likeminded people and have fun.

Currently rehearsing for their Christmas concert, the choir treated Councillor Kilmartin to a special performance which included popular songs by The Beatles and Queen, as well as pieces from The Greatest Showman and Rocketman.

Kim Richardson, senior customer relations manager at Colne View and ambassador for the choir, said: “Here at Colne View, we strive to create a sense of belonging and provide a positive impact on the local community. Singing has many benefits, especially for those living with dementia, as it can improve wellbeing, confidence and provide an opportunity to form new friendships.

“Residents at Colne View absolutely love participating in the choir – it’s the highlight of their week! We were thrilled to have Councillor Angela Kilmartin to join us and we look forward to seeing her again very soon.

“Since launching, the response to the dementia-friendly choir has been fantastic and we’d like to invite the people of Halstead to come along and join in with the fun!”

Councillor Angela Kilmartin, chairman of Braintree District Council, added: “I was delighted to join the dementia-friendly choir for an afternoon of singing.

“The group offers a wonderful opportunity to bring the local community together, and I thoroughly encourage local people to join in the fun and support this fantastic initiative!”

Colne View is a modern care home set in attractive grounds, and has been designed to support residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives. It provides residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care.

For more information about Colne View, please contact senior customer relations manager, Kim Richardson, on 01787 389 337 or email kim.richardson2@careuk.com

For more general information, please visit: careuk.com/colne-view