People supported by Community Integrated Care have been full of song throughout lockdown, thanks to a unique partnership with Singa karaoke.
The care sector has experienced unprecedented challenges this year, under the Covid-19 pandemic. For many people who access care and support, the virus has restricted them pursuing their favorite hobbies and activities. On a mission to make sure that the pandemic does not halt full and active lives, Community Integrated Care and Singa have partnered to provide free karaoke software to more than 200 of Community Integrated Care’s services – from people living in specialist dementia care homes to individuals who have learning disabilities and mental health concerns in supported living services.
John Hughes, Director of Partnership and Communities at Community Integrated Care said, “The Coronavirus pandemic has hit people who access care and support very hard. The restrictions that we face mean that many have had to cope with big changes in their lives and been unable to pursue the things they love the most. We are determined to find creative ways to ensure that people continue to lead fulfilled lives, even in these most difficult of times.”
John continued, “The donation of these licences by Singa has been incredible. Music and singing are one of the greatest joys for many of the people we support. By providing us with such an exceptional system, they have ensured that our services have enjoyed brilliant entertainment and great times together.”
To kick off the partnership, Singa hosted a Zoom karaoke party for people supported by Community Integrated Care across England and Scotland. Hosted from Singa’s head office in Finland by Juha Heikkinen, a professional entertainer, the international karaoke party saw more than 100 people with care and support needs connect to sing their favourite songs together. At a time of rising local and national restrictions, the party provided a much-needed boost to many.
Jade Smith, Support Worker at Community Integrated Care’s Kingsbridge service commented, “The Singa Karaoke night was the first time that residents at Kingsbridge have participated in a group karaoke session. Our residents looked forward to it all week, and especially enjoyed being able to see people from other services. The session helped them to build confidence and gave them an opportunity to forget about the current situation with the pandemic.”
Jade continued, “Creative arts are empowering, as they give the people we support the chance to express themselves in varied forms, and they’re something which can be done one on one or as part of a larger group. It also gives the people we support a chance to socialise and develop stronger connections with each other.”
At the height of the crisis, these experiences have fulfilled creative desires, provided social connection and boosted mental health and resilience. This is a partnership to truly sing about.
