Sophie Garner

How did you get involved with Headway?

I’ve been a singer all of my life and I fell into the world of teaching singing and music. A student’s mother heard me singing through the wall and invited me to her ABI unit. I started running weekly sessions there, and the clients loved it! This led to my work with Headway Bedford, where I’ve been for over six years. This inspired me to study for my master’s, researching the benefits of group singing for brain injury recovery.

You’ve created a welcoming and fun space over the years for your support group, you all must have a great bond.

It feels like a family and a second home. Even though I sometimes feel like the ‘elephant in the room’ who doesn’t have a brain injury, everyone is incredibly open and honest with each other, which creates a beautiful space for support.

Can you tell us more about your new project, Sing & Social and why you created it?

I wanted to create a space where people with brain injuries and their carers can come together, having noticed how many survivors experience depression when going home after spending time in ABI units.
I set up my own community interest company, (Take a Deep Breath CIC), and, with my grant from the Lottery Community Fund, Sing & Social was born. At the sessions, it’s a fun interactive group where we write songs, engage in music quizzes, and do fun, uplifting projects that fire up the neurons. It’s also about allowing people to identify with the music they love. I’ve had a lovely husband and wife online singing together and it’s just been so joyful, and they’ve learnt a lot about each other from it. It’s been quite emotional to see that.

What are some of the benefits of singing for brain injury survivors?

There’s so many! It increases lung capacity, reduces blood pressure, boosts the immune system, reduces inflammation and improves memory. It also releases endorphins and serotonin, all happy hormones.
Also, when a group of people sing together their heart rates match up, isn’t that lovely?

Sophie’s weekly online sessions are free and run every Friday. To join, simply email her at info@takeadeepbreath.org.uk to book your place.