Veterans enjoyed fun-filled dancing events at charity’s West Lothian centre - Daily Record

Sigma Capital Group and Simple Life Homes recently brought the joy of music and movement to Sight Scotland Veterans by supporting the delivery of DanceSing sessions at the charity’s Linburn and Hawkhead Centres.

Veterans enjoyed fun-filled dancing events at a charity’s West Lothian centre.

Sigma Capital Group and Simple Life Homes recently brought the joy of music and movement to Sight Scotland Veterans by supporting the delivery of DanceSing sessions at the charity’s Linburn and Hawkhead Centres.

They have donated one interactive workshop, a one-year subscription to DanceSing and two radios, with a total value of £3300.

DanceSing focuses on transforming the lives of older adults through the power of movement, music and mindfulness. Founded with a passion for creating meaningful, engaging and evidence-based resources, DanceSing supports people to thrive physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

From a lively Doris Day singing session to more relaxed chair yoga exercises, veterans thoroughly enjoyed the workshops and gained a taste of the wide range of resources that will now be available to them throughout the year. The visually impaired veterans were guided through song and movement exercises designed to boost physical and mental wellbeing and to support them stay active, connected and uplifted.

Veteran Mick Mears, who has Age Related Macular Degeneration, said: “Today was great because we got to do the activity in a big group it was great to see everyone up and enjoying themselves, taking part and doing the exercises and singing. It gave everyone who took part a big boost, and you can see how sessions like these are so important to help veterans like me stay active.

"I love coming to the Hawkhead Centre, it is great to have the opportunity to come try new things like carpet bowls, woodwork, exercise, and music.”

Tommy Duffy, who also has Age Related Macular Degeneration, added: “I enjoyed the DanceSing session this morning. It was a bit different to what we usually do because of the music and the sing along. The staff here are wonderful they put so much hard work in and they make it fun. It is a great escape from sitting in the house. I thoroughly enjoy it. It is good for your mental health to see all the lads and have a laugh.”

Natalie Garry, CEO and founder of DanceSing said: “We are proud to be working with Sight Scotland Veterans thanks to our charity partners, Sigma Capital Group and Simple Life Homes. We have provided full access to our digital wellness tools at the Centres, so everyone can benefit.

"We are especially excited to bring DanceSing to the veterans’ wellbeing program. They now have a full-year subscription, giving them the freedom to enjoy these resources anytime and make them a regular part of their wellness routine.”

Niamh Waldron, Social Impact & Sustainability Director, Sigma Capital Group Limited, added: “Last year, I had the great privilege of meeting veterans and staff from Sight Scotland Veterans during a Speed of Sight driving experience at Driftland Circuit in Lochgelly.

"I was truly inspired by the veterans’ openness, honesty, and gratitude for the day, but above all by their positivity and engagement. That first introduction became a natural catalyst for further meetings and a visit to the Linburn Centre.

“Sigma was delighted to donate £5,000, ringfenced for this provision, and to offer further support through membership and access to DanceSing’s online health and wellbeing platform for all staff and veterans. A workshop and training session filled with fun and movement at Linburn was followed by a similar day at Hawkhead Centre.

In addition, we gifted custom DanceSing radios, enabling everyone to enjoy daily music designed to enhance listening and mood throughout the day.

“We look forward to building our partnership and friendship in the months ahead. We passionately believe that such collaborations are a true illustration of meaningful social impact.”

For more information visit sightscotlandveterans.org.uk or call 0800 035 6409.

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