Live music for disabled fans (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Sessions provide safe environment for residents to listen and socialise

9:00am Tuesday 14th February 2012 in News By Emma Clayton

A monthly live music session for audiences with disabilities has been launched in Bradford.

The organiser of the event – aimed at providing a safe, friendly environment for vulnerable people to enjoy music and socialising – is appealing for local bands to perform.

The live music sessions, held at lunchtimes, are a collaboration between Bradford Irish Club and Supported Lives, which provides one-to-one support for people with disabilities, enabling them to live independently in the community rather than going into care.

“The sessions are open to all, but particularly to people with disabilities,” said John Drury, a director at Supported Lives. “The aim is to provide people who are vulnerable with a safe environment where they can watch live music and get together socially. That kind of facility is quite limited in Bradford.

“It’s a no-profit venture. We charge £3 for entry, and carers get in free, and we pay limited expenses to the acts who play.”

Mr Drury, who played guitar at the first session last week, is contacting schools across the district, asking if any young bands would like to perform. “It’s a chance for them to play in public,” he said. “We want to offer a diverse range of music, from classical to punk. We’d like to hear from any bands or other acts willing to play, although we appreciate that because the sessions are during the day it might not be convenient for those who have day jobs too.”

Mr Drury added: “It’s a social get-together as much as anything. We had a communal sing-along last week. People can bring some lunch, and buy coffee and tea at the club.

“If it takes off, we’d like to increase the number of sessions and hold a bigger one in the evening.”

Supported Lives works with 120 people with disabilities districtwide. The service helps people take control of their lives, supporting them in their homes and their local communities, and helps them access occupation and daytime activities.

Clients are encouraged to be part of the planning of support services.

l The music sessions are on the first Tuesday of the month at Bradford Irish Club, Rebecca Street, Bradford. Doors open at 11.30am and the music finishes at 12.30pm. The sessions end at 1.30pm.

To find out more, or to enquire about performing, ring Supported Lives on (01274) 377104.