String of Hearts CIC

String of Hearts CIC

At a glance

Causes

  • Arts
  • Health and well being / research and care
  • Local / community
  • Older people / later life

Other details

Organisation type: 
Social enterprise
Geographical remit: 
Local

Objectives

String of Hearts is a community arts organisation which connects older adults through music, to reduce isolation and improve wellbeing in later life. We reach people aged 50+ across Trafford and Manchester who are isolated, bereaved and/or living with physical or mental health conditions. We deliver group music-making sessions, music phone calls, recording sessions and showcase events, shining a light on the creativity of older adults in our community. Activities take place in community venues and healthcare settings, with most participants referred through social prescribing via their GP or a health agency.

​​String of Hearts was established in 2019 by Co-Directors Lucy Geddes and Amina Hussain, who collectively have 20 years’ experience engaging older adults with music across Greater Manchester. Lucy and Amina both live in Sale and are passionate about connecting people in our community. Our board is chaired by Dr Robyn Dowlen, a researcher specialising in arts, health and wellbeing.

String of Hearts is a Community Interest Company (company number 12351342), a non-profit limited company which exists to benefit its community of interest. Directors of Community Interest Companies have a primary duty to advance the community purpose outlined in our governing document, in addition to other responsibilities as laid out in company law.

Activities

Our core programmes include:

  • Core groups – music-making sessions in Trafford and Wythenshawe community venues
  • Music phone calls – for people who are housebound or digitally excluded
  • Supported living activities – group sessions in sheltered housing and mental health care settings
  • Community showcase events – to promote community integration and celebrate members’ achievements
  • Spotlights – composing and recording opportunities to shine a light on older adults’ lives, stories and ideas
  • Consultations and advisory meetings with members to shape our model of delivery
  • Strategic work – training and placements for students in arts and health, supporting the development of music in social care and social prescribing

No current opportunities

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