MSPspraiseimpact of dementia project
A SINGING project in Glasgow has been hailed by MSPs for “bringing happiness” to the lives of people suffering from dementia.
Cross-party MSPs praised the dedication of the 13 volunteers who run a two-hour weekly group at Springburn Parish Church for families.
A motion put forward by Bob Doris, SNP MSP for Maryhill and Springburn has been signed by 13 politicians.
The motion acknowledged that the project, started by the Reverend Brian Casey, brings “happiness to those living with dementia and their family members and carers”.
Research has shown that the memory of music is one of the last things to disappear in people living with the condition.
Around 45 people take part in the traditional Scottish song singing project each week.
Volunteers say the participants, who are generally unresponsive, come alive during the two-hour session, where they sing songs including, Ye Cannae Shove Yer Grannie aff a Bus and Wild Mountain Thyme.
In a letter to Rev Brian Casey, minister of Springburn Parish Church, Mr Doris wrote: “I thoroughly enjoyed visiting the group and taking part in the sing song of the great old classic Hokey Cokey.”
The motion states: “That the Parliament recognises the good work of the volunteer-run Singing for the Brain Musical Memories group based at Springburn Parish Church every Monday afternoon.
“Notes the dedication of Brian Smith, along with 12 volunteers, who run the fun musical therapy project, which provides live music for people living with dementia and their families and friends.
“Notes that many people from care homes based in areas such as Stobhill, Milton, Springburn and Bishopbriggs come together with their families and carers to enjoy traditional Scottish songs.”
The Evening Times has launched a year-long campaign to shine a light on dementia, which is expected to affect one in three of the population in future decades.
Mr Casey said: “I am very pleased that our project has been recognised i n the Scottish Parliament.
“It is a great opportunity for the church locally to show what we can do for the community when we throw our doors open rather than sitting inside looking out.
“The project has been going very well and is encouraging that the volunteers have been able to help and enthuse people living with dementia and their families.”
Springburn Parish Church also has a range of dementia-friendly features including easy to read signs.