The Power of Music Fund

Supporting people living with dementia through music

Music has a unique ability not only to move us but to heal, connect, and transform lives. That belief is at the heart of The Power of Music Fund, which exists to support projects that use music to improve health and wellbeing for people living with dementia across the UK, through a range of local, grassroots activities and large strategic projects. So far, the fund has:

Supported over 200 organisations, reaching around 9,000 people living with dementia and carers

Launched the first Centre of Excellence for Music and Dementia, which ensures people living with dementia across Manchester can access music-based support, and also gathers evidence of impact on the NHS

Launched a second Centre of Excellence in Hertfordshire, focusing on training for staff working in care homes

Promoted the Music Can website nationally, so that people can find the services they need

Raised £2.7 million to advance health and wellbeing through music

What has been achieved?

Last year, a small grants stream of the fund was launched. The grantees - grassroots organisations embedded in their communities - have just completed their first year of funding. They have delivered:

2,249 music-based activities across local communities

91% of projects worked in partnership with local health systems

Greater social connection, joy, and inclusion for participants

Real world impact

Grantees have seen music-based support can lead to:

Improved wellbeing, mood, and physical activity

Increased confidence and social engagement

Reduced agitation and anxiety

For carers, grantees report that it can bring:

Moments of respite

Recognition of their loved one’s potential and new perspectives on caregiving

Reduced isolation and stress

Though many of the grants are modest, the impact is profound. By supporting grassroots and voluntary organisations, we are:

Strengthening community-based care

Offering excellent value for funders and healthcare providers

Developing long-term, sustainable solutions to improve lives through music
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The Power of Music Fund is managed by the National Academy for Social Prescribing.

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