A training programme in trauma- and mental health-informed singing for singing teachers and leaders nationally will be rolled out via music education hubs this year.
Produced by Music for Good, Sing Up, and the Sing Up Foundation, the training and resources are to be further developed and rolled out thanks to funding from the National Foundation for Youth Music.
The training is based on Music for Good’s director and practitioner Emily Foulkes' Masters research, who will develop the programme further with insight from psychotherapists and other specialists.
As part of the development of the programme - to be delivered via a mix of face-to-face and online sessions - a short survey has been opened for singing teachers and practitioners, also serving as an expression of interest.
Foulkes said: ‘Particularly at this time, as we are emerging into life post-lockdown, we know that mental health challenges are prevalent and mainstream services are likely to be under tremendous pressure.
‘Equipping singing and music practitioners with skills and understanding in trauma and mental health could have a significant impact, especially as singing is fast becoming recognised for its potential to promote wellbeing’
Celi Barberia, head of Sing Up Foundation, added: ‘Time and again, research has proved the impact that singing can have on health and wellbeing and we’re excited to help support teachers and leaders to incorporate this mental health-informed learning in their practice.
‘At this critical moment with a growing mental health crisis, this work with Music for Good will support leaders today and also create resources and opportunities that will have a long-lasting impact.’
The survey can be accessed here.
