Nordoff Robbins Scotland, the only music therapy charity in Scotland, was at the Scottish Parliament last week to invite MSPs to pledge their support for the charity’s ambition - to ensure that music therapy is accessible to everyone in Scotland.
MSPs were asked to show their support by adding quavers and crotchets to a music bar to create a song, demonstrating that every note counts. Highlands & Islands MSP Jamie McGrigor was one of those who pledged his support.
Commenting, Jamie said:
“I wish the Nordoff Robbins Scotland charity every success as it seeks to expand the work it is doing and make its services accessible to potential service users all across Scotland”.
Carolyne Nurse, Fundraising Director for Nordoff Robbins Scotland, said:
“This has been an eye-opener for many MSPs who have pledged their support so far. They now know how the power of music therapy changes the lives of people facing severe health challenges.
“Music therapy is vital for many people. Whatever their condition or illness, music therapy helps people to take their first steps to engaging or re-engaging with the world around them. It is important that our MSPs understand that, for many of the people we work with, music therapy is not optional - it is essential.
“Our therapists change the lives of people with dementia, autism, learning disabilities, and other complex conditions, by enabling them to connect and communicate. We bring hope to many people and their families, and we want to make music therapy accessible to everyone in Scotland who would benefit.
“Nordoff Robbins music therapists help over 400 children, young people, and adults every week, using the power of music to improve their health and wellbeing. It works with people who have a range of challenges, including autistic spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, mental health problems, life-limiting illnesses, and dementia”.
Above: Jamie McGrigor visiting the Nordoff Robbins Scotland stand last week at Parliament
Nordoff Robbins operates through four music therapy clinics - in Broxburn (Lothians), Maryhill (Glasgow), Crosshill (Fife) and Dundee (Tayside). Referrals can be made through parents, carers and professionals. Self-referral is also possible.
For more information about the charity's work, visit www.nordoffrobbinsscotland.org.uk or call 01506 239578.