THE Singing for the Brain® group, which meets at the Boniface Centre in Crediton on the second and fourth Thursday of each month is looking for new members.

This friendly, relaxed group begins with tea or coffee and biscuits, allowing time for chatting and meeting friends.

This is followed by an hour of singing led by an Alzheimer’s Society Singing for the Brain leader.

Sue Tyler, Peer Support Group Facilitator for the Alzheimer’s Society said that some songs are sung from memory, whilst for others, song sheets are given out.

She explained: "It really doesn’t matter if you think you cannot sing, we all blend in together and make a great sound."

Talking about the service, a member of the group said: “We both look forward to coming to the group. Everyone is so friendly and we have a laugh.”

Singing for the Brain® is a programme developed by Alzheimer’s Society for people with memory problems, promoting communication through singing which can help with articulation, concentration, focus and motivation.

Specially trained facilitators deliver a varied programme of vocal, rhythmic and gentle physical exercise and dance, along with songs from different eras and styles.

The Singing for the Brain® group meets on the second and fourth Thursdays from 10am to 12 noon.

Sue added: “If you are living with dementia and would like to try Singing for the Brain, please come along and join us. We look forward to meeting you.”

The next meetings of the Crediton Group will take place on Thursdays, May 26 and June 9.

To find out more about the services Alzheimer’s Society can provide please contact the Devon Dementia Support Service on 0300 123 2029 or by emailing: [email protected] .

Alan Quick