Video: Alzheimer’s Society support group is singing on

The group of people with dementia and their carers has been meeting every month as part of the Singing for the Brain programme in Kirklees.

Run by the Alzheimer’s Society, the programme singing to help improve concentration, articulation, motivation and focus.

Support group facilitator Janette Battye said: “Even when many memories are hard to retrieve, music can sometimes still be recalled –if only for a short while.

“We have people that can’t string a sentence together, but they can read from a sheet or can sing an answer rather than speak it.”

She said carers often noticed an improvement after sessions, and enjoyed the experience of singing together.

The group, which has won funding for a second year, regularly has around 24 visitors.

“It’s taken off with word of mouth, support from memory services at Dewsbury and District Hospital and other organisations,” said Ms Battye.

“We’re getting lovely friendships built up as well.”

The group meets at the minster on the first and third Friday of the month, 10.30am-12.30pm. Sessions cost £2, including refreshments.

Volunteers to help run the group would also be welcomed. Ring 01484 429865.

Visit our website to watch a video of the group in action.