By Alix Lewer and Susi Barran, the Include Choir
The Include Choir |
There is a growing recognition of music’s amazing ability to heal
and promote wellbeing– but wellbeing is only part of the story. Music is also a
powerful agent for change. The well-timed protest song may do more to influence
change than umpteen academic articles or committees.
Music is a powerful form of communication and we also know that
communication is power!
We know how powerless we feel if we do not have a voice. But
sometimes we forget the other half of the communication exchange - understanding
is also power. If we do not understand what people are saying to us, we are as excluded
as if we are not heard.
And this is what makes The Include Choir unique – not only does it
harness the power of song to give a voice to people who don’t feel heard, it also uses and teaches the inclusive
communication techniques which make genuine co-production possible.
An average Include Choir rehearsal uses:
· * Makaton signs, symbols and pictures to support
understanding and expression
· * Visual timetables / diaries to maximise
autonomy
· * Accessible information
· * Talking Mats & iPad apps to make choices,
discuss and reflect
· * Objects of reference or sensory interaction to
engage people with more profound communication needs.
Inclusive communication means power is shared in all aspects from
running rehearsals to introducing performances, inducting new members to choosing
songs. Together with song, it breaks down the barriers between people with
communication needs and other members of the community, meaning everyone can be
involved.
The Include Choir also embraces musical coproduction when writing
its own songs about things that matter to its members. Rehearsal and repetition increases learning
and understanding –whether singing about complex legal issues in The Battle Hymn of
the Mental Capacity Act, or singing about a curry!
For support staff, repetition also builds confidence in using inclusive
communication.
Pity is disempowering and is not a word associated with The
Include Choir. The power of song grants
a voice and reminds people that coproduction means supporting
communication. There is no pity, but
there is a shared song, laughter and a commitment to ‘sing till we are heard’.
To find out more about: Accessing the Battle Hymn of The Mental
Capacity Act e-learning in 2020; mental capacity and inclusive communication
training; booking The Include Choir; setting up an Include Choir in your area; Or anything else - please email info@include.org
The Include Choir is a volunteer-led charity. If you would like to
make a donation to help make the world more welcoming for people with
understanding and speaking difficulties, go to https://wonderful.org/charity/theincludeproject
Website: www.include.org
Twitter: www.twitter.co.uk/includechoir
Facebook: www.facebook.com/IncludeChoir
YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/theincludechoir
Instagram: www.instagram.com/includechoir
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