Inspiring young carers united in song by community music studio

INSPIRING young carers have been united in song by a not-for-profit music studio.

Children from WCD Young Carers (Wrexham, Conwy and Denbighshire) are attending weekly choir practice at Wrexham Sounds, based in Rhosrobin.

The affordable sessions are held with renowned vocal coach Clementine ‘Clemmy’ Gong and proving to be a big hit with families and the community.

With plans for a possible charity performance on the horizon, spaces are still available to join the group, which is focused on fun and learning in a warm, welcoming environment.

Wrexham Sounds General Manager Olivia Gallagher said the partnership with WCD Young Carers continues to go from strength to strength.

“We’re so pleased to be able to give these talented young people a platform to share their voice and, most importantly, build their confidence,” she added.

“The feedback we’ve received from parents and the group has been glowing, they have really enjoyed the sessions with Clemmy and we’ve had nine young people taking part so far.

“We have room for more, so if there are any young carers from this area who want to come along and join in, please get in touch.”

Wrexham Sounds had already been delivering free music lessons to WCD Young Carers including Maisie Carman, a pupil at Ysgol Dinas Bran, Llangollen.

Maisie, from Cefn Mawr, helps mum Lisa and stepdad Dean look after seven year-old brother Leo, who this year completed treatment for chemotherapy and is making a full recovery while he awaits further tests for autism and anxiety issues.

Leanne Jeffreys, an Outreach Worker at WCD Young Carers, was heartened to see the partnership’s continued development.

She said: “Olivia and the team have been amazing offering the young carers opportunities to express themselves through music and we have seen how this has helped them cope with difficult life circumstances.

“One example of this was a young carer who was really nervous before a GCSE exam but got through this by using the techniques shown to her by Clemmy.

“The children love being in the studio and we see their confidence grow week by week, the sessions are open to all of our registered young carers and we are welcoming new members all the time.”

For more information on the WCD Young Carers choir or to join the team at Wrexham Sounds as a freelance tutor or volunteer, visit www.wrexhamsounds.org and follow them on social media at @wrexhamsounds.

For more on WCD Young Carers call 01597 823800 or email info@wcdyc.org.uk. Alternatively, email www.carers.cymru/wcdyc.