'With Music In Mind', a social enterprise that provides singing and social groups for anyone over the age of 50, is starting up in Penarth. 

Thanks to support from Glamorgan Voluntary Services, through the Supporting Older People in the Vale Revenue Funding Scheme, With Music In Mind is able to extend its range of groups to Penarth so that more older people can access its informal and fun sessions. 

With Music In Mind was set up 4 years ago by Vale residents Sarah Miles and Kate Whitestone and started in Cowbridge.

They have since expanded to Barry, Llantwit Major, St Athan and now, Penarth.

Groups are designed to be informal and fun and are open to anyone over the age of 50 – they remind everyone that singing ability is not important.

With Music In Mind is based on research that shows that singing in a group reduces stress and loneliness and improves memory, mood and wellbeing.

The sessions consist of an hour of group singing led by the musical director, Matthew.

This is then followed by refreshments, which are provided, and a further hour of social activities, such as quizzes, talks from outside speakers, Tai Chi provided by Age Connects, or simply a chance to catch up and chat. 

Staff member, Lindsey Newman, who started working for With Music In Mind a year ago said, 'Seeing the group members forming friendships within the groups which then continue on the outside is wonderful as this new friendship group would never have come about had they not started attending WMIM.

''I have had several members comment to me about how their self-confidence has improved since joining and so I am very excited to be offering this service to people in Penarth as well'. 

The testimonials, on WMIM's website, from current group members also signify the importance of groups like this in the community.

Two quotes from members can be read below:

"I have always loved singing and as I suffer with Parkinsons, since I joined With Music In Mind it has given me more confidence to enjoy singing again.

''I have made a lot of friends and beside the music I enjoy other things that is put on for us such as quizes and other entertainment.

''With Music In Mind has made a big difference to my life and I look forward to Monday mornings." - Graham Page, aged 81

"I am enjoying the singing and company. I look forward to coming regularly." - Miriam Sutton, aged 93.

The new group will be held at the St Augustine's Parish Hall, Albert Road, Penarth on Wednesdays from 10am-12pm, except the 2nd Wednesday every month, when the hall is being used for a different group.

The first session will be on Wednesday 18th September 2019. 

If you would like to talk to find out more about any of our groups, then click the red button below for the website or phone Sarah and Kate on 07500 776295. Or, you can simply turn up.

Groups:

• NEW: Penarth – St Augustine Parish Hall, Wednesdays 10.00-12.00 (excluding 2nd Wednesday every month)

• Barry – Margaret Alexander Community Centre, Thursdays 10.30 – 12.30

• Llantwit Major – Llantonian Hall, Thursdays 2.15 – 4.15

• Cowbridge – Duke of Wellington, Fridays 10.30 – 12.30

• St Athan – The Gathering Place, Fridays 1.45 – 3.45