Music Therapy for Patients and Families
Music Therapy can support people to reflect upon aspects of their lives, connect with memories and express difficult thoughts and feelings in a safe space. There are also times when patients can reconnect with a musical instrument, although there is no expectation to play or have a musical skill.
Music Therapy provides the opportunity for patients to explore the role of music in their lives and can be the connection to important moments or special occasions. It can also be a way in which people want to express who they are and who they have been in life beyond their illness, as well as in the face of it.
It can be especially beneficial for patients or relatives if talking is challenging due to illness, injury, or disability. Some people may only require a few sessions, whilst others benefit from working together over a longer term.
The Music Therapy Service is available to all patients and their families accessing the Specialist Palliative Care Service. For further information, please call 01603 776622.
“It is difficult for me to verbalise adequately just what this meant to us while we too were trying to grapple with the emotions, appointments, caring, and all that comes at such a time.”
Family member of a patient
Creative Ways to Support You
Weekly Sessions for Inpatients at Priscilla Bacon Lodge
We offer weekly Music Therapy sessions every Friday, specially designed for inpatients and their families. These sessions can take place at the bedside or in our dedicated Music Therapy Room within the Wellbeing Centre. This is a wonderful opportunity for patients and their loved ones to have a shared experience and connect through music, guided by our compassionate Music Therapist. Music has a unique ability to help us share our thoughts and feelings, often without needing to speak, offering comfort and solace during moments of pain and distress.
Patients can choose to participate in Music Therapy on their own or with their family and friends. We also understand the importance of supporting carers, so relatives can arrange individual sessions for themselves if they wish.
To arrange a session, simply speak to the Nurse in Charge, who will make a referral to the Music Therapy Service on your behalf.
Creative Living Group in the Day Unit
The Creative Living Group meets every Tuesday afternoon, running in 8-week cycles. After completing a cycle, you can decide whether to continue or explore other options. This group is designed for individuals living at home or being cared for in their communities. There may also be times when relatives may also join to share in the experience over the 8 weeks.
Our patients and their relatives tell us that living with a palliative illness can be challenging, especially when you’re no longer able to do the things that once gave enjoyment and purpose. This group offers the opportunity to connect with others who are going through similar experiences, helping to ease feelings of isolation and loss. Music plays a vital role in our group discussions, opening up new ways to connect and share.
Outpatient Music Therapy Service for Patients and Families
Patients living at home or being cared for in your community can access our Music Therapy service through an outpatient’s appointment which is offered at the Wellbeing Centre’s Music Therapy Room.
Whether patients prefer to come alone or with family members, we’re here to support you. In some cases, our Music Therapist may even be able to visit patients at home, however this is reviewed on an individual basis.