Continuing a tradition that first began in 1989, a year after the company's formation, York marketing communications firm The Partners Group has made its 17th annual Christmas charity donation, this year to the Malton-based North Yorkshire Music Therapy Centre.

Angela Harrison runs the centre with her colleague, Elaine Wallace. Both are trained music therapists, and travel around North Yorkshire to special schools, day centres, hospitals and houses to provide weekly music therapy sessions for people with a range of mental and physical conditions.

"It's a very practical form of therapy," says Angela. "We work with people of all ages with physical, mental or learning difficulties, who find it difficult to take control of their situation or communicate with others.

"We encourage them to explore the instruments in whatever way they feel comfortable, and find that the music enables them to experience interaction. It also builds their confidence and allows them to express themselves.

"It's a very positive experience; particularly in terms of building confidence. Parents and carers often tell us that in the sessions they see a side to their children or members of their family that they have never seen before - being playful, laughing and giggling - and that is incredibly moving."

The centre developed from a private practice established in 1987, and currently provides therapy for more than 70 people across North Yorkshire. "We have a number of people waiting for therapy," says Angela. "Donations such as this one really do make a huge difference to people's lives, and we're extremely grateful to The Partners Group for their support."

For more information, or to make a donation, visit www.music-therapy.org.uk or contact Angela on 01653 698129.

back to what's new