TUESDAY, 23 NOVEMBER, 2021

IMMEDIATE RELEASE: PHOTO ATTACHED – MUSIC THERAPIST GEORGE CHANDLER IN THE PIANO ROOM AT MURRAY ROYAL HOSPITAL

Patients offered music therapy in pilot project

A pilot project to provide music therapy for patients in adult mental health and learning disability wards has been introduced at Murray Royal Hospital in Perth.

Qualified music therapists are offering music therapy in individual and group sessions, which include musical exercises and working with instruments. Music therapy can offer an alternative means of expression and communication for those being treated in inpatient settings.

The innovative pilot project, which has been funded by the Scottish Government’s Mental Health Outcome Framework, began last month and will initially run for six months before the project is evaluated.

Paul Monaghan, senior manager for Mental Health & Learning Disability Inpatient Services, said,

“NHS Tayside is delighted to further enhance the range of therapies that people are able to access within both mental health and learning disability services and this new initiative will offer people the opportunity to use music and sound to support their recovery and wellbeing.

“Using music therapy within inpatient settings in Tayside is a very exciting and innovative development that will support the work of multi-disciplinary care teams across NHS Tayside and help deliver improved outcomes for patients.”

NHS Tayside art therapist Sinead Braiden added, “We are excited about this new Allied Health Professions development within mental health inpatient services. The project increases access to therapies for people who may have difficulties in communication or simply want to explore their problems in a new and creative way.

“This additional therapy also further enhances the multidisciplinary teams in delivering high quality, safe, effective and person-centred care."

Contact:

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740716