David is 15 and has cerebral palsy. He loves music and has taken part in some of our #MusicEveryDay online live music through Robin House, which is run by the charity Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS). We spoke to David’s mum Evelyn and CHAS Activities Facilitator Alison on a video call.
It’s just a fantastic way for David to engage with something that he loves. I see the benefit it has for David and I would hate to think there's anyone out there who can't access it. It would be such a shame.
Evelyn: “Pre-Covid-19, David was always a busy boy. He would keep our diary very full. He’s 15, so he goes to school. Normally, he would go to disabled Scouts. He plays Boccia and enjoys taking part in different activities at the weekend. So, virtually every day there was something for David.
When we went into lockdown,David was shielding and off school. All of our activities, and respite care at Robin House, stopped. We went from quite a bit of support, to absolutely nothing. Respite is good for us, and it’s social interaction for David. For that to just all disappear was absolutely horrendous.”
Alison: “David just loves music. A lot of our families do, but David comes alive with music. Through lockdown, I’ve seen how much he benefits from it. It makes him brighter for the rest of the day because he’s had that interaction.”
Evelyn: “As soon as music’s on, David smiles. You know when he’s fully immersed in music – he starts to move his hands, like he’s conducting. It’s just beautiful to watch and see his reaction.
With no school or anything, it’s a long day when you’re looking after a child with severe and complex needs. The #MusicEveryDay sessions provide a focal point for the day. It’s good to say, ‘Today you’ve got your Zoom session. You’re going do some music’. David loves it. Afterwards, he absolutely benefits from it.”
Alison: “In the sessions, we are able to interact. That helped make it more like you were at an in-person event.”
Evelyn: “Being able to give a playlist ahead of time has been a big benefit. When someone plays music that David knows he likes, I think he gets that the person has an interest in him. That they care about him. It’s a fantastic way for David to engage with something that he loves. I see the benefit it has for David and would hate to think there’s anyone out there who can’t access it. It would be such a shame.”