Charity helps raise spirits of Warwick residents through song

A charity that aims to end isolation of older people helped raise the spirits of Warwick residents this week through song.

On Monday afternoon (March 23) singer Victoria Wilson from the Kissing it Better healthcare charity dropped in to the residents of West Street and Bowling Green Street to raise spirits with her repertoire of classic songs.

Residents either listened through their windows or kept an appropriate distance apart in their gardens and the grounds to hear Victoria's programme of songs. Many sang along too.

Kissing it Better’s aim is to end the isolation of old age by bringing the generations together.

With countless thousands - of mainly vulnerable older people - looking at the prospect of being isolated in their own homes for at least three months, the charity team knew they had to think ‘outside the box’ to ensure their usual programme of events, that usually take place inside hospitals and residential homes, were still able to continue.

The result was 'outside the window' (#outsidethewindow), a carefully planned programme of activities that can take place in the open air and always at least two metres from anyone else.

For the last two weeks, the charity have been both surprising those who have to stay away from others, whether that be in a hospital, residential home or their own house.

The charity’s CEO and co-founder Jill Fraser is keen to point out that these kind of events have to be planned with meticulous care. She said: “In every case we ensure we have permission from whoever is in charge.

"In this case we are grateful to The Master of the Lord Leycester Hospital. We also need to be sure that everyone involved is fully aware of the current guidelines.

"In that sense it is not a complete surprise we are coming. But when everyone hears our singers, they are all thrilled by the impact of their incredible voices.

"It is a privilege to have worked with Victoria over the past year. A graduate of the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, she continued her training in Florence and has won many prestigious awards.

"She describes her style is classical, opera, jazz and beyond. In short, she can sing anything.

"On a sunny afternoon from one of the most spectacular locations in Warwick, she brought tears, smiles and much applause to those who might otherwise feel cut off from the world outside their homes."

Determined to reach out to as many isolated older people as possible, the charity is keen to hear from anyone who can either offer their musical talents or put them in touch with other groups who could benefit from this initiative.

For more details contact mail@kissingitbetter or Jill Fraser on 07831 136152