Interest in singing groups for people living with dementia has soared thanks to a moving two-part documentary fronted by TV star Vicky McClure.

Following last week’s final episode of the BBC One show ‘Our Dementia Choir Sings Again’, the charity Alzheimers Society has recorded a marked increase in enquiries about its popular Singing for the Brain service.

In the programme, the Line of Duty star and Alzheimer’s Society ambassador, shines a light on the connection between music and memory and how participation in singing groups can benefit people living with dementia.

Since the first of the two episodes was aired on October 10, sign-ups from organisations and individuals interested in becoming a Singing for the Brain delivery partner have more than trebled.

Singing for the Brain is an uplifting and stimulating group activity, built around familiar and new songs, with fun vocal warm-ups. There are already groups set up across the UK, but Alzheimer’s Society wants more people in Birmingham to benefit.

The charity has created bespoke training to organisations or individuals across the UK, with an interest in music, to run their own group and become a Singing for the Brain delivery partner. 

They will provide partners with the support and resources to successfully do this. Janice Le Tellier, Alzheimer’s Society Area Manager for Birmingham, said:

 “Music memory is often retained when other memories are lost. 

“Singing for the Brain can help people, even in advanced stages of dementia, tap into long-term memories linked to music and song. For some, this means they can communicate through singing when no longer able to do so through speech.  

“We are changing the way we provide support for people affected by dementia in the community so we can reach more people through delivery partners. We want more people to benefit from our popular Singing for the Brain service.

“Too many face dementia alone. We want everyone affected by dementia to know that whatever you going through, you can turn to Alzheimer’s Society for practical advice, emotional support and guidance for the best next step.”

To find out more, join a group or to register your interest to become a Singing for the Brain delivery partner, visit alzheimers.org.uk/singingforthebrain.