“Music is often a valuable source of therapeutic engagement and personal expression for our patients” explains Zoe Conway, Occupational Therapist on Wenric Ward.

However during the pandemic, the gentlemen on the mental health ward in Littlemore were unable to access the music equipment they had previously enjoyed, as it was located on a neighbouring ward.

Oxford Health Charity through support from NHS Charities Together’s COVID grant, have purchased music studio equipment for the Wenric Ward to allow patients to pursue their interests in music, DJing and record music.

“Music has historically been a popular occupation on Wenric, and patients have very much enjoyed being able to use the music lab equipment. It’s been fantastic to hear the gentlemen use the equipment to record their own original songs and raps, as well as mixing and producing their own music. We even had one patient submit a song recorded on the equipment for an emerging artists slot, and had it played on BBC Berkshire with an accompanying phone interview.” Zoe tells us.

“Having our own equipment on Wenric has enabled patients to come along and try out a music session, even if they are initially unsure. Visiting another ward, as we previously needed to do, could be anxiety-provoking and patients were likely to avoid, whereas on our ward they are more likely to give it a go”

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