Care Home Idol praised by MP during House of Commons’ Question Time

MP for Slough, Fiona Mactaggert, highlighted carehome.co.uk’s talent contest for care homes, Care Home Idol, and the positive impact that singing has on older people, in the House of Commons during Question Time.

Ms Mactaggert was talking about the importance of cultural activity, asking Government ministers during Question Time, how they aim to increase the number of children and young people taking part in cultural activities and studying creative subjects.

Ms Mactaggart said: “The UK leads the world creative industry, some of the best actors, designers and musicians come from the UK and if the Government doesn’t nurture this sector, the UK will fall behind.

“A 2011 report by the Arts Council states that the sector provides a turnover of £12.4 billion, too significant to ignore.”

She added that “the joy and happiness that these activities can bring to people of all ages was well illustrated at the Rambler care home (Langley Haven care home), which has won the ‘Care Home Idol’ competition for the singing of its residents”.

Residents from Langley Haven Care Home, in Slough, Berkshire, won first prize in Care Home Idol 2014 with their rendition of ‘Maybe it’s Because I am a Londoner’. The winners were decided by a public vote.

Ms Mactaggert said: “Local medics believe singing has a positive impact on appetite for frail elderly people and will produce a report testing this theory.

“The creative sector provides jobs, it creates joy and supports a healthy life; it is critical for our national future. I will continue to campaign for the benefits of creative and cultural activity for young and old.”

A recent report showed there has been a 50 per cent drop in the number of pupils taking GCSE in Design and Technology and a 23 per cent for Drama and a 25 per cent drop in other craft-related GCSEs.

To view, Langley Haven care home’s video, go to www.carehome.co.uk/idol/idol.cfm/id/132