Northumberland hospital patients benefit from music and movement programme
Patients on the elderly care ward at Hexham General Hospital have been enjoying a unique programme combining live music and gentle movement.
Throughout May and June 2026, dance and creative health practitioner Susie Tate and musician Simon Wood delivered four weekly sessions designed to support patients' physical, emotional and social wellbeing during their hospital stay.
Bringing together gentle movement, music and creative expression, the sessions encouraged patients to participate at their own pace, helping to support rehabilitation, manage pain and improve confidence and wellbeing.
Staff saw patients engage with the sessions in different ways, whether through movement, conversation, singing along to familiar songs or simply enjoying the uplifting atmosphere created by the live music.
Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity funded the initiative as part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing patient experience across Northumbria Healthcare services.
Karen Streener, Grants manager at Bright, said: “We are delighted to have supported this project at Hexham. Creative health activities such as these can have a profound impact on patients' wellbeing, helping them feel connected, engaged and supported during their recovery.
“This project is a wonderful example of how charitable funding can enhance care and create positive experiences beyond clinical treatment."
Following the success of the initial programme, Bright Charity is delighted to support a further 12 months of sessions, which resumed in August.
The expanded programme will continue bringing the benefits of music, movement and creative expression to patients at Hexham, helping them stay connected, engaged and supported during their recovery.