Leeds Law Firm Show Their Support To North Yorkshire Group

A team of specialist medical lawyers at Irwin Mitchell’s Leeds office swapped law books for guitars this week in support of a local charity which offers music therapy for people with learning difficulties, mental health issues and brain injuries.

North Yorkshire Music Therapy Centre is a charity that works throughout the community in schools, hospitals and day centres, holding workshops and lectures to promote the benefits that music therapy can have for people suffering from learning and development disabilities.

On Tuesday (18 February) Irwin Mitchell provided sponsorship for 30 local children with disabilities to use the facilities at the West Yorkshire Playhouse for the day. The children and their families, including members of local organizations such as Snaps, Little Hiccups, Martin House, Hannah’s House, Star House and Scope, made the most of the music therapy by using various instruments such as percussion instruments, guitars and keyboards. The therapist supported and encouraged everyone in the group to contribute and gain a sense of achievement.

Expert Opinion

The North Yorkshire Music Therapy Centre does some fantastic work with groups of people and their families helping to provide them with a variety of therapies depending on their needs which really helps boost their development and rehabilitation.

“It also provides much-needed respite for people who often have complex needs, from those with physical or learning difficulties to those with acquired brain injuries and mental health issues.

“We work on behalf of numerous young people who are often physically or mentally disabled as a result of medical negligence so we know first-hand how important music therapy can be to help with communication and development and how difficult it can be for many families to access due to logistics and cost issues.

“We want to support the organisation in any way we can and highlight to families that these facilities are available and that they provide invaluable access to music therapy which is essential for recovery, rehabilitation and development.”
Rachelle Mahapatra - Partner

The North Yorkshire Music Therapy Centre is an award winning charity based in Malton which helps people of all ages whose lives have been affected by illness or disability. Music therapy uses active music making as a means of communication and self expression, with great results.

Angela Harrison, Lead therapist at the North Yorkshire Music Therapy Centre, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Irwin Mitchell to provide this very special event during half term week. Helping families to make music together is such a pleasure.”

For more information about the North Yorkshire Music Therapy Centre please visit www.music-therapy.org.uk or call 01653 698 129.