A BEWDLEY day service has put its charity funding to good use by purchasing musical instruments to be used by clients at its centre.

Reach Community Services, based at Bewdley Cricket Club, offers support and opportunities for adults with learning difficulties and special needs within Wyre Forest currently for two days-a-week.

Individuals who attend the service are able to develop their confidence, communication and social skills and other skills for life, as well as meeting their friends, developing new friendships and having fun.

The service was able to buy the new instruments after receiving funding from the Helen Rachael Mackaness Charitable Trust Fund which was applied for through an article featured in The Shuttle.

Alison Coley-Smith, service manager, said: “We were over the moon about receiving the funding which has enabled us to purchase musical and percussion instruments to provide music sessions at Reach.

“This is an exciting opportunity to develop our provision further through opening Reach for an additional day a week on Fridays.

“The instruments will enable individuals with learning disabilities and additional needs to have regular access to music, an outlet for expression and meaningful stimulation, to socially engage and have fun.”

With an additional Friday Club opening, Alison aims to provide ‘Fitness and Fun’, with a dancefit session in the morning and music sessions in the afternoon.

The dancefit sessions will be delivered by Faith Thompson, a licensed Zumba and Fitsteps instructor, but Alison is still searching for a local musician to help the group deliver an educational, interactive and fun music session, and play either the keyboard or guitar and sing.

Alison added: “We have explored several avenues but many people are either working or have other commitments.

“Ideally we need someone for a Friday afternoon for one hour who may have some time to spare, a student who may need to gain some experience, or someone who would like to make a difference.”

For more information, or to volunteer as a music teacher with the group, call Alison on 07841 524316, or email ali@reach4support.org.uk