Musical Instruments for the Children's Oncology Ward

My name is Erin and I'm a Music Therapist working with Children with Cancer and Leukaemia on the Children's Oncology Ward in Noah's Ark Children's Hospital, Cardiff. I am funded by LATCH: LATCH supports children with cancer and leukaemia from across Wales.

I would like to fundraise £800 to purchase a guitar and 3 Ukulele's to be used on the ward with the Children.

My work involves supporting children through the challenges of being unwell and staying in hospital for long periods of time using music.

Music therapists work with children to work through the psychological difficulties which arise when undergoing treatment at the hospital. Many of the children face fear, pain and relentless treatment whilst on the ward, which can have dramatic effects on their mental health and wellbeing. It is vital that the children have a variety of outlets to encourage them to explore their thoughts and feelings - music therapy can offer a safe and contained environment to do so. Music can also distract patients from pain, break up the long days while having treatment and bring joy, happiness and fun to hospital life.

Erin Williams-Jones is a qualified and HCPC registered Music Therapist with extensive experience in Children's Hospice Care, Children's Learning Disability Services and Children's Hospital Settings. Erin uses a variety of methods such as songwriting, receptive music therapy and improvisation, tailoured to each child's individual needs.

The funds will cover:

1 x Classical Guitar for the music therapist to use (this has a lovely tone which is really useful when working with smaller children, especially those who are extremely unwell). This guitar will be left on site at all times.

3x Ukulele's that children can have access to when working with the music therapist and in their own time.

All accessories needed: Cases for the instruments to be stored, spare strings, straps etc.

We have partnered up with PMT Cardiff who are going to provide the Charity with the equipment.

The children will be extremely grateful for your support. I look forward to providing more accessible music opportunities to children on the ward.

Erin