A cherished Solihull singing group that supports people living with dementia and their carers is expanding its services, thanks to a vital funding boost. The Solihull Memory Singers will now meet every Thursday, doubling the number of sessions it offers to the local community.
Weekly sessions launch in Chelmsley Wood
From January 2026, the group's fun and friendly gatherings will take place weekly at The Onward Club on Helmswood Drive in Chelmsley Wood. The move from fortnightly to weekly sessions has been made possible by a grant from the Heart of England Community Foundation.
The sessions, which run from 1pm to 2:30pm, are open to anyone with dementia or another neurological condition, as well as their carers. They are designed to harness the proven therapeutic, social, and cognitive benefits of music, providing a joyful and connective experience for all involved.
A lifeline for families and carers
Run by the Warwick-based music charity Armonico Consort, the Solihull group is part of a network informed by expertise from The Alzheimer’s Society’s Singing for the Brain programme. Professional workshop leaders and pianists guide participants through a wide range of music in a supportive environment.
Sarah Riddell, Operations Manager at Armonico Consort, highlighted the profound impact of the sessions. "While scientific research confirms the benefits of singing, seeing a Memory Singers session makes it self-evident," she said. "It's a joy to watch connections re-open through music. For many, this is the highlight of their week."
Testimonials from carers underscore the group's value, with one stating, "Singing is a lifeline for my wife," and another sharing, "My husband really enjoys his afternoon and comes away smiling."
Call for participants and volunteers
With the new weekly schedule, Armonico Consort is keen to welcome new participants to the Solihull Memory Singers. The charity is also actively looking for volunteers to help support the running of the sessions.
Anyone interested in joining or volunteering can contact Sarah Riddell via email at sarah.riddell@armonico.org.uk, by phone on 07722 632242, or by visiting the charity's website at www.armonico.org.uk/communities.
