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The Music Therapy Team

Sound Waves South West, the Music Therapy Charity Trust, a key provider of much needed Music Therapy for children in North Cornwall and North Devon, is delighted to introduce two new Music Therapists to their Team.

“Although a State Registered Profession with highly qualified and very special individuals, Music Therapy is not actually funded by the State. It is however a very valuable process encouraging and enabling children to communicate. Those helped by Music Therapy include children damaged by circumstances who have been severely traumatised as well as those who have conditions such as Autism, physical or mental disabilities. Knowledge, patience, skill and total empathy are key qualities we seek when choosing our Therapists” says Judyth Gwynne, the dedicated Chairman who started the Charity over eight years ago.

Schools are encouraged where they can to contribute to the costs but in virtually all cases provision of Therapists depends on support from outside agencies. Sound Waves South West are extremely grateful that The Duchy Health Charity have chosen to support their work in Cornwall and by providing much needed financial support they have enabled children in the area to experience the opportunity to improve their communication and movement skills.

Simon at Crooklets beach

SWSW are delighted to welcome Simon Sheridan who has come from Co. Wicklow in Ireland to share his communication skills, undoubted musical abilities and his engaging personality with local youngsters. His qualifications include an MSc in Music Therapy, proficiency on several musical instruments and languages, both European and Japanese. "It was Simon’s practical experiences and natural empathy which first attracted SWSW. He has many dimensions to his skills and experience and we believe he will instinctively offer some very special opportunities to our local children. " Simon will initially work in the Special Units attached to Bude schools but his enthusiasm and experience is such that SWSW is sure he will make his mark further afield in the area.

Simon is also joined by Carine Kelley (picture soon!) who will be working mainly in the Launceston area. Carine has combined her music degree with qualifications and practical experience in care with adults and children together with a diploma in Music Therapy.

“It’s not easy to help people understand how vital the provision of Music Therapy is to very vulnerable and damaged young people. Effective publicity is challenging as promotional photos are not always appropriate and progress can be imperceptivity slow – but that does not mean it does not count – probably totally the opposite! ” said Jacki Stephens for SWSW. “We are absolutely indebted to the Duchy Health Charity for their major financial help – this is vital and very much appreciated”.