Bucks-based not-for-profit partners with Parkinson's UK

They've launched a programme to support people living with Parkinson's over the Winter months.

Delivered as part of a national partnership between Chiltern Music Therapy and Parkinson's UK, the new online music therapy programme offers a mix of interactive music, singing, voice exercises, gentle movement and wellbeing activities every week. 

Sessions launched yesterday (10/11) and are available for people living with Parkinson's who would like to take part in music therapy and gentle movement activities, with each one lasting around 50 minutes, with opportunities for participants to take breaks or ask questions at the end of each session.

Spaces are limited to 10 places though, so anyone interested in taking part is encouraged to complete a referral form in plenty of time.  

An experienced Neurological Music Therapist will lead the sessions and guide participants through different movements and vocal exercises, with the aim of helping more people to live well with Parkinson's. Neurologic Music Therapy uses music-based techniques to support rehabilitation and help people maintain function when living with a neurological condition. 

It's said music and rhythm can provide helpful cues for movement, while singing and vocal exercises offer opportunities to practise breathing, voice production and speech. 

For those with Parkinson's, music therapy is said to have many benefits, including: 

• Supporting movement and coordination through rhythmic activities. 

• Encourage clearer, stronger speech through singing and vocal exercises. 

• Supporting breathing and breath control through gentle breathing exercises and structured vocal activities.

• Building confidence and motivation.

• Creating greater social connections. 

Gabrielle Norman, Neurologic Music Therapist and Strategic Business Development lead at Chiltern Music Therapy said:  

"We've seen how our in-person Neurologic Music Therapy® (NMT®) groups can help people with Parkinson's move, connect and feel more confident. 

"Neurologic Music Therapy draws on scientific research into how music influences the brain and behaviour, using structured techniques to support everyday function and bring enjoyment, connection and a sense of wellbeing. 

"We're delighted to work with Parkinson's UK to bring these opportunities to more people through our new online group."

Anna Castiaux, Physical Activity Programme Lead at Parkinson's UK, said: 

"It's great to be working with Chiltern Music Therapy on the new online programme. My hope is that more people with Parkinson's will be able to enjoy the benefits of movement and wellbeing practices in the winter months.  

"Music therapy and regular movement can have so many benefits, not only for physical fitness, but also for a person's wellbeing and social interactions. Using the power of rhythm and movement, we can engage participants in joyful experiences that build physical confidence and independence."

"We know that being active can be one of the best ways to live well with any long term health condition, and Parkinson's is no exception.

You can find out more here (external).