Lots of us think about our health and well-being at the beginning of a new year.

Sound Resource is an Oxford-based charity, managed by volunteers, which uses singing to boost wellbeing by providing singing courses and workshops in community, health and social care settings.

Helen Hewlett, chairman of trustees, explains: “Sound Resource supports various groups locally, including the new Singing for Better Breathing Group. The ideas and activities behind this particular strand have been researched and developed at the Royal Brompton Hospital, the Sidney de Haan Centre in Kent and elsewhere.”

“Led by experienced voice practitioners and assisted by an invaluable volunteer, Singing for Better Breathing began in late October at Oxsrad in Marston for a pilot program of 10 sessions.

The group runs from 11am till noon on alternate Thursdays and people are welcome to stay on afterwards for some refreshments and a chat. Oxsrad have kindly offered the room free to help us get going.

Already participants are finding sessions helpful, giving a focus to their breathing and helping them to sing as well as possible in spite of breathing difficulties of various kinds.”

Helen goes on to reassure potential new attendees: “As in all the groups that Sound Resource supports, no one is put on the spot. “You don’t need to read music or have any experience. Everyone is encouraged to pace themselves, for example to remain seated if they want to, and exercises and songs are taught through call and response, by ear.”

So, if you have a lung condition or know someone who does, why not come along? (Friends and family are also welcome). Suggested donation £3. Some help with travel costs may be available.

The next session is Thursday, February 20, at 11am at Oxsrad, Court Place Farm, Marsh Lane, OX3 0NQ. For further details please contact soundresourcecharity@gmail.com  or follow us on Facebook.