A grant from the Foundation went towards Dementia Singing Experience’s staffing costs and supplies. The staff are the facilitators that lead all the singing and craft sessions. Without them, the charity could not function.

Props and creative art supplies were also an essential investment as they shape the overall atmosphere when singing. This enriches the experience for the community.

Staff Member of Dementia Singing Experience:

When I started my journey with Dementia Singing Experience Sussex, I was struck by how much of a difference such a small charity could make to people living with dementia. Dementia is a progressive condition, meaning consistency is vital. Funding allows the charity to run regular, structured sessions rather than one-off events. These sessions include singing, movement, and interactive activities designed to stimulate memory, communication, and emotional wellbeing. Creating meaningful emotional change has meant that participants who arrive withdrawn or unresponsive become engaged, smiling, and communicative during sessions. We often see individuals who were previously silent become animated, sociable, and even physically active through music.

One of the charity’s primary aims is to provide respite and emotional relief for carers, who often experience stress and isolation. By maintaining regular sessions, funding allows carers to see their loved ones experience joy and connection again. In some cases this can be deeply emotional, especially when individuals who have not spoken for months engage during sessions. From my perspective, the impact of funding goes beyond financial support, and the impact of the charity goes beyond memory. This charity brings joy, dignity, connection, and a renewed sense of life to people affected by dementia