Cash boost for two local music projects

John Lewis Exeter has awarded local community music projects Dementia Carers’ Pathways Devon and Exeter Community Radio aka Phonic FM a grant of £1,000 each through its Music Matters scheme.

The John Lewis Partnership’s Music Matters programme supports groups which make an outstanding contribution to their local community through music. The department store and Waitrose shops receive applications from groups which perform any type of music, from choirs and orchestras to bands and ensembles.

The first project to receive funding through the scheme is Dementia Carers’ Pathways Devon which is a ‘not for profit’ organisation supporting carers in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset and Memory, Dementia and Alzheimer’s cafes. 

It was set up to help and inform, not only those who were diagnosed with an illness that night lead to dementia, but also their carers. 

Co-Founders David Light and Jim Delves, in their roles as carers, found that information, guidance and help was available, but not easy to find. 

They have produced a CD and songbook of music aimed to stir the memory of dementia sufferers and recognise the benefits music can bring also adding another dimension to what Carers’ Pathways can offer.

Jim Delves, Director of Carers’ Pathways, said: “Receiving this generous donation will help us to produce a second CD and songbook for dementia sufferers. I would like to thank John Lewis Exeter for considering our application and awarding us with a Music Matters grant.”

The second project awarded £1,000 is Phonic FM, a local community radio who support the arts in and around the Exeter area, and in the five years it has been on air Phonic has already supported a vast array of artists, events and musical styles by giving them a platform to promote their music. 

John Wigzell, Director of Phonic FM said: "This money will go towards upgrading our equipment to improve the quality of the live music we play.  We’re very grateful to John Lewis for their kind donation."

Sophie O’Connor, community liaison coordinator at John Lewis Exeter, said: “To see how our support will make a difference to this year’s successful applicants is fantastic. We are delighted to support locals who are passionate about music through our Music Matters scheme.”