Wellbeing singing group sees increase in demand

The group was started in 2023 for women who were unemployed, worked from home, self-employed or were mothers

The founder of a singing group that focuses on wellbeing over performing said it was "something close to her heart".

The Colegate Singers, based in Norwich were set up by Ellie Wright in May 2023 because she wanted to share the health benefits of singing after suffering with postnatal depression.

The two groups attract women aged from their 20s to their 70s and aims to provide a safe space for women going through trauma, bereavements or mental health issues.

Ms Wright said there had been an increase in demand and added: "It lifts the spirits - it does what it says on the tin."

Ms Wright, 41, started the choir for women who were self-employed, worked from home or who were mothers.

While people of all abilities are encouraged to join, she said the focus of the group was more on wellbeing than performing.

The Colegate Singers run two classes, one during the daytime and another one in the evenings, which was started after an increase in demand

An increase in demand means that Ms Wright has started to offer an additional evening class which has seen more younger people in their 20s and 30s join.

"This feels like the closest thing to my heart and I'd love more people to benefit from it," she said.

About 35 women already attend the classes.

"We all know each other and all new people are welcomed," she said.

Ms Wright added: "I'm just really happy to help."