Unique mental health support in community offered through the Voice of Hope Choir
The Wellness Recovery Network within the South Eastern Trust, is transforming the lives of people in recovery from mental health and addiction challenges through a range of creative and supportive programmes.
One such initiative, a singing for health group called ‘Voice of Hope’, has empowered many individuals to rebuild confidence, rediscover their voices and reconnect with others through the shared joy of music improving their overall mental health.
Among those whose lives have been positively transformed is 72-year-old piano teacher, Anuk Rooney from Bangor, who credits the group with supporting her recovery following a diagnosis of depression.
Anuk, who previously taught music in the United States before moving to Northern Ireland six years ago, explained how the group helped her reconnect with her passion after stepping away from music during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Anuk said: “During COVID I became very depressed and had to step back from my much-loved work as a piano teacher.
“I found out about the Wellness Recovery Network support groups and went along to one. While I was there, I heard about the singing group in Ards and thought it would be something I could try, even if it was just to listen to other people sing.
“Going along to the music group was so much fun. It was lovely to hear people sing and just as importantly, to have people to talk to. The group members have now become my friends.”
Incredibly inspired by the group, Anuk found herself returning to the piano after a four-year break. Anuk added, “Before joining the singing group, I had not touched the piano in four years. The group inspired me so much that I am now back playing the piano again.
“Attending this group has been so important in my recovery and in my life. I have actually been discharged by my Doctor and that is down to the progress I made through the Voice of Hope Group, which would not have been possible otherwise.
“The Voice of Hope Group has brought friends and music back into my life. It is a total joy when people sing together, their hearts beat at the same rate. Music is very powerful and it has made such a difference.
“I would never have sung on my own before. Now I can and it gives me a huge sense of achievement. Those small achievements build confidence and that has changed my life for the better. It is never too late.”
Wellness Recovery Network Co-ordinator, Angela O’Hara highlighted the benefits of the group and its inclusive approach. Angela said: “The Voice of Hope Group was formed in 2017 and is a singing for health group.
“You do not have to be able to sing to join, you just need to enjoy music. Everyone is welcome to attend.
“The group is very uplifting and is ideal for anyone looking for routine, connection and confidence-building. It runs every Monday afternoon in Action Mental Health in Jubilee Road, Newtownards.
“We sing together as a group and explore a wide variety of songs. For those who feel comfortable, there are also opportunities to sing solo.
“A lot of people have been told at some point that they cannot sing, we take that as a challenge, because everyone can sing. It is all about building confidence and singing can significantly improve mental health.”
Angela also explained that the group works in partnership with Right Key, an organisation specialising in supporting people in mental health and addiction recovery through music and singing for health.
Angela added: “I have worked in the Trust for 10 years and this is without doubt the best-attended group we have ever run. Each week, around 15 people return for another session.
“It is a real privilege to be part of this group. I love my job and getting to sing along with the group every Monday afternoon is a real joy. Singing is a hugely undervalued wellness tool and the benefits are incredible.”
Anyone interested in attending the Voice of Hope singing group can self-refer by contacting:
or calling (07713) 088 676.
