Shropshire-based charity, Qube, is looking for volunteers as part of an exciting new scheme to help combat loneliness and isolation.

The Musical Befriending Project will teach carers of the elderly or housebound ways to use music as a way to communicate and share memories with their clients or loved ones.

This exciting initiative is the brainchild of local community musician, Adrian Plant, who has spent 35 years helping people to improve lives through music and the arts.

There is much evidence in healthcare to show that music has a positive impact on well-being and Adrian was able to see this first-hand whilst caring for his elderly parents.

Adrian said: “Music is an important part of everyone’s lives. We can all think of a favourite song or tune that brings back a meaningful memory. "Listening, playing or sharing music together can help people to express themselves. It encourages friendships and it enables people to become more confident and feel less isolated.”

The Musical Befriending Project, funded by the People’s Postcode Trust will provide free ‘music-care’ training for volunteers, employees or relatives. As well as musical and creative listening skills, befrienders will develop the practical skills to create ‘Desert Island Discs’ style play-lists of favourite music for others, as part of a friendly and supportive group.

Arts development officer, Vanessa Baldry is urging anyone who is a carer to come along to one of our two taster sessions at Qube and find out more. She said: “You don’t need any experience of music at all, just a willingness to listen to and share music with others.

"We’ll show you that Musical Befriending is not only a creative way to share time with those you care for, it’s a whole lot of fun.”

Taster sessions are taking at Qube at Oswald Road, Oswestry on Thursday, March 1 from 2.00-3.30pm and 6.00-7.30pm. Refreshments will be provided.

For further information or to book please contact Qube on 01691 656882 or email info@qube-oca.org.uk.