Charitable partnership brings the power of dance and music to UHNM

Dialysis and cancer patients at Royal Stoke University Hospital have benefitted from an initiative that brings dance and music directly to the ward thanks to a partnership with FRONTLINEdance and UHNM Charity.

FRONTLIINEdance, a local artist-led company, delivered adapted performances funded by the FRONTLINEdance National Portfolio Organisation from Arts Council England.

The team visited the renal unit and cancer centre to help improve patient well-being, lift spirits, and provide a welcome distraction during treatment.

The performances, designed to be accessible to all, offered gentle movement, music, and interaction to create a positive and uplifting atmosphere. Patients joined in by moving their arms or tapping their feet, while others enjoyed the rhythm and atmosphere.

Hospital staff have praised the holistic approach to care, and it is hoped the partnership with FRONTLINEdance will continue for future projects.

Helen Barlow, Haemodialysis Unit Ward Manager, said: “It has been so nice to have FRONTLINEdance here, for anyone who is undergoing therapy, or is an inpatient receiving treatment. It can be quite a difficult time, so something that will ease that and bring a level of happiness and distraction is a positive benefit to our patients.”

Rachael Lines, FRONTLINEdance Artistic Director said: “We just want to give patients, staff and visitors some light relief, something non-medical to experience in a hospital environment. We want patients and staff to know that others think about them and that they are valued. We want to offer something to take the mind off what is going on, to help pass the time, to give some joy and laughter, to give them something to talk about which is additional and different to medical information.

“Staff and patients have been very welcoming and supportive of what we are doing. We enjoyed it too!”

Gemma Thomas, UHNM Charity Arts Project Manager, said: “I think the arts and FRONTLINEdance have an important part to play for patients at UHNM. I think there is something beautiful about music and connection with human beings which shows how an artistic experience can be part of patient care while in hospital.”

If you would like to fundraise for UHNM Charity visit www.uhnmcharity.org.uk for more information, or call 01782 676444 to speak to one of the UHNM Charity team.