Photo: Liz leading the Singing for the Brain session
It’s a Tuesday afternoon at St John’s Church in Sidcup. The tea is on, chairs are being arranged, and there is a quiet buzz as everyone begins to arrive.
Called, Singing for the Brain, this free and welcoming group supports people living with dementia or other memory challenges, alongside their carers.
Even when communication becomes difficult, the ability to sing often remains a powerful and uplifting gift, something this group gently nurtures each week.
Run in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society and following its established programme, the sessions create a joyful and supportive environment. Alongside singing, there is time for conversation over tea, coffee, and cake, helping friendships and connections to grow.
The group meets every Tuesday afternoon at St John’s Church. Sessions are lively and engaging, featuring singing, gentle movement, and the use of musical instruments, all designed to encourage shared moments of joy and connection.
Photo: Movement is a key part of the session
Liz Tragheim, who established the group, was inspired during her training as a Licensed Lay Minister and Anna Chaplain – a dedicated ministry within the Diocese, focussed on the spiritual and practical needs of older people, their families and carers.
Looking at her local community in Sidcup, she noticed how limited the support was for those affected by dementia. Having seen what was available in neighbouring parishes, she felt strongly that similar opportunities should be offered locally.
Liz explains “The area around St John’s Church has a particularly high proportion of people over the age of 80, meaning many are potentially at risk. Of course, dementia can also affect younger people, which makes accessible local support all the more important.”
Photos: Visitors enjoy using the instruments
Andrew Sayers, Services Manager for the Alzheimer’s Society, described the impact the group is having on local families,“Singing for the Brain at St. John Evangelist Sidcup is a lifeline for those living with dementia and their carers. It reduces stress and combats the feeling of isolation for all those living with dementia.
Watch a short film about the project.
"The importance of meeting people socially and having fun is so important and at St. John Evangelist, they make that happen. It will take a society to beat dementia, and the Singing for the Brain group offers hope, support, and fun at a crucial time.”
Chris Tragheim, church treasurer and co-founder of the group, reflects on what he has seen since it began, “It has been truly transformational, not only for those living with dementia, but also for their carers.”
Photo: Chris encourages everyone in the singing
For families, the sessions provide both encouragement and respite.
Two sisters who regularly attend with their sibling shared, “It’s not only a blessing for those living with Alzheimer’s, but also for their families. It offers a precious hour of relaxation, music, and togetherness. There is a real sense that we are all in this together, and that shared understanding makes this time especially meaningful.”
Cathy Littlejohns, Dementia Adviser for the Alzheimer’s Society, highlighted the importance of the atmosphere created at the sessions, "Singing for the Brain isn't about musical ability, it’s about memory stimulation. This can evoke happy memories of fun times. Liz and everyone involved at St Johns have created the most welcoming and joyful group, it’s an hour of songs, smiles and laughter.”