Beat This initiative strikes a chord of success at Huntingdon Day Opportunities

          
  
Over the course of 12 weeks, our Huntingdon Day Opportunities customers took part in music sessions facilitated by Beat This, an initiative aimed to provide music and technology sessions to people with additional needs develop skills, interact, and express themselves through music. This project was supported by a generous amount of £6,443 from the NFU Mutual Charity Fund.

Through guitar strums, drumbeats, and lyrical compositions, participants delved into the world of music, ending the programme in the recording of their own song at the Beat This studio in Peterborough. The project not only honed musical skills but also fostered a sense of teamwork and accomplishment among the customers.

The initiative had a big effect outside of the studio and sessions. Customers said that they felt healthier and happier, looking forward to each session. One customer told a member of the team “it changed my life and has given me a reason to live”.

The sessions increased the customers confidence and self-esteem providing them with an opportunity to do something totally different to their normal day to day activities. This was particularly the case for a small number of customers who are more reserved and cautious by nature.

A shining example of the initiative's impact is illustrated through customer CM, a 19-year-old participant who is very shy and socially anxious. At the time of the sessions starting staff were concerned that CM was very nervous and not engaging with others, she was very quiet and shy. They were worried that they would not be able to bring her out of her shell. 

The music sessions sparked CM's enthusiasm leading her to perform the dance routines from her favourite music videos in front of the whole group. She explored musical instruments and fully engaged in all the musical activities. She giggled and beamed with happiness whist exploring the musical fruit. This newfound engagement not only provided insight into CM's preferences but also informed the centre's approach to supporting her needs.

The project was a huge success, and our fundraising team is currently endeavouring to secure funds for future sessions.

Huntingdon Day Opportunities customer Claire created an amazing CD cover so that all of her friends at the centre could have a CD of the songs they created.