Widnes music project stamps out stigma of mental health (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Music helps people recover from mental ill health in Widnes

9:30am Saturday 9th March 2013 in News By Barbara Jordan

GIFTED people in Widnes are developing music, photography and film skills to help recover from mental ill health.

They have discovered how to make a sound recording, take photographs and perform live, with former MTV multi media producer, Tony Reilly.

James Beirne, a practitioner from the Halton recovery team, said: “We have been giving people of mixed musical abilities the opportunity to explore and develop their creative side and to promote their talents.

“The goal is to promote recovery and integrate into the community.

“We hope to emphasise people’s individuality and gifts, rather than restrictively view people through the lens of a mental health diagnosis.”

The pilot project, Sound Minds, has been part funded by 5 Boroughs Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.

The Studio in Lacey Street, Widnes, has provided the venue free for 10 weeks.

One group member said: “It’s good being with people who are in the same situation as you are. I feel at home with the group.”

Another added: “It positively pushes people into doing something they may not normally do and opens doors.”

Their creative work will be showcased in a live and recorded performance, and in their own documentary, at 4pm on Friday, March 15.

Admission is free. Donations will contribute towards future projects.

A new 12-week programme starts in April.

Louise Nulty, project manager of The Studio, said: “We are delighted to have hosted this innovative weekly group.

“Tony has done a fantastic job of tapping into their artistic talents through our Access All Areas programme.

“We hope that people of all ages and backgrounds will come along and enjoy a fantastic evening of entertainment.”