Paul Meekcoms from Canvey Island attends the Fair Havens Hub for supportive therapy and recently attended the ‘Playlist for Life’ group. 

‘Playlist for Life’ helps people to create the soundtrack to their lives and to leave a legacy for their loved ones. The group meets for three weeks to share and talk about the music that has a meaning to their lives before adding it to a personalised booklet along with the story or memory behind it. 

Music plays such an important part in people’s lives, with songs bringing back memories that make them feel instantly connected to someone or transport them back to a time and a place in an instant. It’s also been scientifically found to improve wellbeing by reducing anxiety and depression and supporting cognition, speech and memory. 

One of those songs that takes Paul back in time is Caroline by Status Quo. 

He says, “The song reminds me of when I was 17 and seeing my first big band at the Kursaal. Status Quo are known for their rhythm and bounce, and I remember how the springboard ballroom floor was bouncing.” 

Fair Havens Hub offers a wide range of different facilities, activities, and therapies, giving people an enhanced sense of wellbeing and helping them feel more like themselves again. The supportive therapy on offer enables them to enjoy themselves, meet people, learn new things and develop their confidence. 

Paul says, “I’ve really enjoyed meeting new people and talking about music. It’s made me think about songs and memories I haven’t thought about for a long time, which I wouldn’t have thought about if it wasn’t for this group.”