Celebrating Carers Week: Why They Are Central to What We Do
Recognising the role of carers in making inclusive music sessions possible
This Carers Week, I wish to shine a light on the people who make so much of my charities work possible — and who play a pivotal role in the success of every session we provide.
At T.I.M.E. (Together In Musical Expression), we deliver inclusive music sessions across a wide range of settings:
🎶 Dementia care homes
🎶 Disability day centres
🎶 SEN schools
🎶 Mental health services
🎶 Community groups
🎶 Youth clubs and creative spaces
Our aim is to help people express themselves, discover their creative potential, build confidence, connect with others - and experience the joy of musical participation, no matter their age, ability or background.
But the success of these approaches, isn’t just down to our instructors.
Behind every session we deliver is a network of people who make it possible. And right at the heart of that network - are carers.
Knowing The Person
We provide the music and performances. The accessible instruments. The experience of musical interaction.
But the carers bring something we can’t tap into. A personal knowledge of the person they support.
They know what makes someone smile. What makes them anxious. What music they loved as a teenager. Whether they’ve had a bad nights sleep or a tough start to the day. What they need to feel safe.
It’s this insight and everyday advocacy, that makes our sessions not just inclusive, but person-centred. And when we work alongside carers, we see stronger connections, higher outcomes and more meaningful engagement.
Moments That Matter
Sometimes, in the middle of a session, something profound takes place. But our instructors are not always aware of its magnitude.
Someone might sing along to a song. Or play a short melody. Or tell a story from their past after hearing a familiar track.
To us, this is a special moment and a further chance to connect. However, for the people around them, especially carers who know their journey, it can be something far more meaningful.
Like when we visited a dementia care home, and a resident who had never spoken in the 4 months he had been living there, suddenly began singing along to a wartime classic.
Or the young man in a disability day centre. Someone who is usually quiet, withdrawn and communicating in one-word replies - sang every word of ‘You’ve Got a Friend in Me’ from Toy Story. The staff were in tears. This was a huge breakthrough, that provided essential awareness of this lads interests, abilities and needs.
These are the moments that remind us why we do this work. But they also remind us how vital carers and support networks are in helping us achieve those special moments.
Caring About Equality
This year’s Carers Week theme is “Caring About Equality”. A message that recognises the inequalities many carers face, and to advocate for a fairer society.
Too often, carers give so much of themselves. Their time, energy and wellbeing to support someone else, while receiving little recognition in return.
They work long, unsociable hours.
Often for modest, or no pay.
Often at the cost of their own needs.
They prioritise others.
They hold families and services together.
And they play a huge role in the wellbeing, creativity, and expression of the people we work with every single day.
So… a huge thank you from all of us at T.I.M.E.
Thank you to every carer who supports someone to attend a session.
To every support worker who sings along and encourages someone to join in.
To every parent, partner, friend or staff member who advocates for the person behind the diagnosis.
We couldn’t do what we do, without you.
If you’d like to support my charities work, you can do so here:
👉 https://www.peoplesfundraising.com/donation/togther-in-musical-expression-
Every donation helps more people have a chance to feel seen, heard, and celebrated 🧡
🌍 Links
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Speak soon,
Marc
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I love the inspiring snapshots you've shared here, Marc. I'm sure you're enabling the carers to relax for a while, to have fun, and BE the daughter, husband, wife or friend again for a time instead of the carer. Poignant, meaningful moments and memories!
What wonderful work you are doing!