CARE home residents have been getting creative thanks to the support of a music therapist.

As part of Music Therapy Week, Milford House Care Home held an open group music therapy session run by music therapist Fraser Simpson from the national music charity Nordoff and Robbins.

Residents had the chance to join in the singing, try out an instrument and play together under Fraser’s guidance.

At the end of the session, there was a musically inspired tea where everyone got the chance to chat and ask Fraser any questions.

Senior general manager Aga Musial said she has seen the positive impact the sessions have had on residents.

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“This was a wonderful opportunity to see music therapy in action,” she said.

“We have been lucky enough to have Fraser attending the home weekly since the beginning of January where he runs a combination of group and individual sessions and his arrival is eagerly anticipated.

“It has been wonderful to see the impact that the sessions have had on wellbeing, mood and connections between both residents, staff, family and friends as they have joined in sessions.

Fraser Simpson with life enrichment team members Gale and Jane Picture: Milford House

“Whenever Fraser is in the building there is a real buzz around the home and smiles everywhere, and so we were delighted to be able to celebrate and highlight the benefits that music therapy has had within the home.”

A family member of one of the residents said they have been “so impressed” with the impact Fraser had on residents.

They said: “Fraser really gets to know each one individually and draw out musical memories and special moments, and then work with them to play and create a shared experience and it has been amazing to see some of the responses.

“It would be no exaggeration to say that my own experience of joining in a session with my relative made me quite emotional – but in a good way!”

Milford House has been bringing a range of musical experiences to residents this year, including this music therapy initiative, as they participate in the National Activity Providers Association’s Year of Musical Expression which is focused on using the power of music to reduce stress, improve mood and encourage emotional connection and expression and the home is currently exploring a range of different musical genres with everyone in the home.