Dementia-friendly Christmas concert proves a huge success

The event, at the town’s St Mary’s Church, was the first held by Leicester Musical Memory Box, a group which organises activities around the county which ‘stimulate and activate memory’.

Around 70 people attended the Melton concert and they were greeted on arrival with refreshments and mince pies.

The church was soon filled with familiar carols, Christmas songs and a strong sense of togetherness, allowing people living with dementia or other issues, alongside their families, carers and friends.

Kyle Newman from Leicester Musical Memory Box said: “It was really special to see so many people come together in such a beautiful setting.

"Creating relaxed, dementia-friendly spaces where people feel welcome, supported and able to enjoy the benefits of music and shared moments is at the heart of what we do, and this service truly reflected that.”

He added: “We were honoured to be joined by Mayor of Melton, Councillor Siggy Atherton, who gave a humorous and engaging reading of the Nativity from the Innkeeper’s perspective, bringing smiles and laughter and adding to the joy of the occasion.

“We are also grateful to Melton Rotary for their supportive donation, which helped make the afternoon possible.

“Leicester Musical Memory Box already has links with the Melton community, running a regular Musical Memory Box group at Melton Library twice a month, and this service felt like a wonderful extension of that ongoing connection.

“It was a joyful and uplifting occasion, showing how music, humour and community support can come together to create meaningful, dementia-friendly experiences at Christmas.”