Location
Years
2017 – 2020
Activity
In partnership with Brightness Management, and supported by a music therapist and the Hallé, we first tested the approach with six families in Little Hulton and north Walkden (Salford) singing together. We also taught singing for breathing techniques through a community music organisation in Morecambe Bay. We then worked for a year with the choir at a primary school in Little Hulton.
BreathStars also plays games and tells stories to improve asthma knowledge in fun and memorable ways.
Impact
An independent evaluation of the BreathStars group indicated notable improvement in asthma control with added impact on self-esteem. Enjoyment of the singing group within a family-centred approach was positive, alongside the community benefit of wider asthma education.
Evaluation of the school choir by CLES (Centre for Local Economic Strategies) found improved confidence, friendships and lung health.
Evolving from BreathStars, BreathChamps CIC became an independent social enterprise. It works with children and adults with breathing problems.
Funded by
Salford Clinical Commissioning Group (with support from Salford CVS), Big Lottery Fund, Morecambe Bay Clinical Commissioning Group and Forever Manchester
