Music & Memories Meets The Prince

Kay Wood of Talley attended the PRIME Cymru 2015 Awards as a finalist in the new business category.  Kay established her business, Music & Memories, in January 2015 with the support of Prime Cymru, Business Wales and A4E as a result of the local job centre suggesting self employment.

Kay used to sing with a six piece acappella group for seven years, performing at care homes in Shropshire and Powys.  Their repertoire always included sing-along songs.  Following a performance a family member spoke to Kay saying “My mother hasn’t spoken for two years but has just sung every word to that song.  Thankyou.”  Using her experience of engaging people through music and singing Kay made the decision to establish Music & Memories.

Kay was introduced to HRH Prince Charles the President and Founder of PRIME Cymru at the awards ceremony held at Nanteos Mansion, Aberystwyth last Friday.

He was interested to hear that her business harnesses the multiple benefits of group singing, music making and sharing memories to bring physical and mental well-being.  She explained that she delivers her services in care homes and day centres in Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion.

The Welsh Commissioner for Older People has written a review promoting social stimulation within care homes. Sarah Rochira understands that lack of stimulation can lead to older people withdrawing, both physically and emotionally.

This has a significant impact on their health, wellbeing and quality of life.

Kay clearly loves her work, stating that singing and sharing memories increases physical and emotional well-being and that ‘it is an honour to be able to provide this service and an absolute pleasure to see and hear the positive reactions.’

A resident, who had recently moved to a care home, said “Thank you so much for bringing such joy to my day.  I hope you will visit again soon.”

PRIME Cymru, the Prince’s Initiative for Mature Enterprise in Wales is a registered charity and the only organisation in Wales dedicated to providing practical support to people aged 50 and over who want to become and remain economically active.

HRH Prince Charles has stated “I happen to believe that the experience and skills which people build up over a lifetime are an invaluable resource and it is madness for society not to make use of this.” Kay is looking to expand her service into the corporate field and use her skills in team building training, ice breakers at events and increasing levels of wellbeing in the work place.

For further information or bookings please contact Kay Wood:

07860278687/kaywood435@btinternet.com