The evaluation highlights the success of the projects delivered as part of Sing Up and the National Children’s Bureau partnership between 2010-11, aimed at promoting the well-being of looked after children through singing and supporting social and educational outcomes.
The projects were delivered in partnership between music organisations and Children and Young People’s Services and included direct delivery, training and advocacy. The evaluation was then carried out through observation, interviews, informal discussions and analysis of reflective writing from those involved in the projects.
The evaluation found that children taking part in the projects gained confidence in singing and enjoyed being introduced to new instruments, with many continuing to sing at home and subsequently taking up other opportunities for music making. Other benefits in taking part in the projects included making friends, an increase in confidence and self-esteem, and social and personal skills such as learning to co-operate.
Helen Chambers, the NCB’s Principal Officer for Well-being said:
“The Sing Up-NCB programme has demonstrated how music can contribute to improving the well-being of children who have experienced neglect and abuse. It is excellent to hear how much children and their carers have enjoyed singing and making music. Many children and adults have surprised themselves in what they have achieved, and how much they have enjoyed learning new things; some children rarely able to communicate have found their voice through music.
“Good foster care is essential to ensure that looked after children are encouraged and helped to take part and keep going. The challenge for local services is to find ways of sustaining and embedding singing and other creative activities as a part of good care practice.”
Guess what, you can read the final evaluation report, and other related documents online!
And don't forget to tune in to the live webcast of the Looked After Children And Music conference tomorrow at 10.20am.
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