Cover story – advertising feature
hearts with his energetic performance at Care Sector’s Got Talent 24. “As a care assistant, music has become
a valuable tool. It helps me connect with residents on a deeper, more personal level. Whether singing to them or creating a soothing atmosphere, I’ve seen how music can lift their spirits and bring comfort, making their day a little brighter.” Aiysha Rastall performed in front of
Talent 24 winner Molly Blackburn
leads to inventive solutions, but what does it have to do with wellbeing? In an article for a special Talent 25 Edition of CareHomeLifeStyle, Jo Ashton, founder of Optimise Workplace Wellbeing, told us: “There have been various studies on the correlation between positive mood and creativity. For many people, the focus on doing something creative has a very cathartic effect, showing evidence that symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety can be reduced. For others, it may not be something creative that works for them, but the important thing is to find some things you enjoy doing and ensure you do them regularly. “We all have things that we enjoy, but don’t find the time for; or things that we would love to try, but don’t get around to doing. Maybe there’s a bit of apprehension and fear attached to new hobbies, or doing something different, or maybe just finding the time is a barrier – especially when we lead busy lives and have lots already going on.” But imagine how good it would feel if
you were able to make time, overcome your nerves, and try the things you have been secretly wanting to do. A boost of confidence, a sense of personal achievement, and possibly even admiration for the talents people did not know you had.
A sense of achievement Ali Arthington is the lead designer for CareHomeLifeStyle magazine and an advocate for the health and wellbeing benefits of dancing and singing. In her free time, she is a keen amateur Ballroom and Latin American dancer and a member of a local community choir. “I started dancing at the age of 29, and finally plucked up the courage to enter my first competition at the age of 49,” says Ali. “I donned the sequins, spray tan and fake lashes to finally show off my skills in front of an audience. It was completely nerve-wracking – my partner could feel me shaking throughout each dance – but
January 2025
www.thecarehomeenvironment.com Ali Arthington competing in Ballroom dance
the sense of achievement was huge. I even came away with four trophies. Now I’ve got the competition bug, and so much more confidence.”
In tune with your wellbeing Music plays a central role in care. Bringing people together, unlocking memories, sharing joy. It can be central to personal wellbeing too. As applications for this year’s Care Sector’s Got Talent have now opened, we asked three recent finalists what music means to them. Mark Arrowsmith, a Talent 24 finalist,
works for Hallmark Care Homes and his work is focused on end-of-life care. He says he has always found that music and wellbeing go hand in hand. “Often music can make us recall memories, times in our lives and, most of all, feel emotion.
“Using music during an individual’s end-
of-life experience has provided me a way to connect with the person on an emotional and spiritual level. I have had the honour of being present for people physically and emotionally during this very difficult time, by singing songs that are familiar and loved by the individual as they pass.” Sunny Singh of Avery Healthcare won
500 people at the Care Sector Fundraising Ball – an opportunity that arose after her appearance in the 2022 final of Care Sector’s Got Talent. “I never thought I would have the confidence to be able to sing in front of such a huge crowd but I’m proud that I did. I’d love to one day sing as a career alongside doing care work, as singing has always been my passion.” Care Sector’s Got Talent has shown us
just how many creative and talented people work in the care sector – but we know there are many more waiting in the wings. It is not easy to put yourself out there but so rewarding when you do. Do not imagine the nerves – imagine the amazing sense of achievement, and maybe even some opportunities!
Applications for Care Sector’s Got Talent 2025 close 11 January. Tickets for April’s grand final in Birmingham go on sale soon. Visit
championingsocialcare.org.uk now to find out more.
Cheryl Jones SCAN HERE
To find out more about CSGT 25 visit
championingsocialcare.org.uk
Cheryl is head of brand and marketing at CareHomeLife, who provide care essentials that prioritise people, planet, and pocket to nursing and residential homes across the UK. She is also editor and contributing author of CareHomeLifeStyle, a series of health and wellbeing magazines dedicated to sharing positivity and light across the social care sector, as well as being on the judging panel of Care Sector’s Got Talent 2025.
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