An enterprising employee from The NEC Group has found a way to bring music into the lives of older people with dementia through a unique scheme for social entrepreneurs.

Debbie Hodgson, External Affairs Manager for The NEC Group applied to UnLtd – an organisation which provides funding and support to social entrepreneurs - after watching other entrepreneurs in Birmingham and Solihull create imaginative and positive enterprises through a wider project supported by The NEC Group.

After a rigorous and competitive process, Debbie was successfully awarded a £2,000 grant by the charity to provide interactive music workshops and concerts for older people with dementia, working closely with music charity Lost Chord.

The funding is being used to pay professional musicians to perform and purchase musical equipment. Debbie will also be supported by volunteers at each concert.

Debbie said: 'I have been singing professionally for many years, and working with UnLtd in my current role at The NEC opened my eyes to how I could use my music and my musical contacts to benefit others in need in the community.'

'Since my own grandmother went into a home last year it made me realise that there was a need for engagement and stimulation for the residents to enhance the environment they live in.

'As most residents are unable to leave the home, I wanted to bring music to them. The work that Lost Chord have done have proven that music therapy stimulates the brain and aids memory retention.'

Parminder Jutla, Development Manager, UnLtd, said: 'UnLtd is a charity which supports social entrepreneurs - people with vision, drive, commitment and passion who want to change the world for the better. We do this by providing a complete package of funding and support, to help these individuals make their ideas a reality.'

'UnLtd has recognised and therefore invested in Debbie's commitment, ability and motivation to utilise her passion for singing and music to create more stimulating environment for the elderly in care homes. This concept will help to encourage communication and reduce the rate of mental deterioration within the elderly.'

Debbie will be arranging 10 concerts at Bowood Court over the coming months with a variety of local musicians.