Scottish Parliament Motion recognises Playlist for Life
A motion recognising the power of personalised playlists for dementia has been raised in Scottish Parliament.
Motions are short statements written by an MSP. Most motions raise awareness of an issue or recognise a group, business or individual. Other MSPs can support a motion to show they agree with it.
The motion in support of Playlist for Life was raised by Pam Duncan-Glancy, Glasgow, Scottish Labour on 2nd September 2024 and supported by cross-party MSPs.
The motion says:
That the Parliament recognises the work of the music charity, Playlist for Life, which supports people with dementia; notes the benefits of personal playlists for people with that condition, including improving their mood, reducing anxiety, improving communication and opening opportunities for connection; believes that the work of Playlist for Life can help to ease pressures in dementia support and significantly enhance person-centred care, as well as decrease carer stress and provide respite; notes that the charity supports 80,000 people every year and has trained over 8,000 health and care professionals to make playlists part of dementia care; recognises what it sees as the important work of its 2,500 help points across the UK, which offer free support and resources to families; notes that 57 of these help points are in Glasgow and operate in partnership with various organisations across the city; acknowledges National Playlist Day 2024, which will take place on 20 September, and encourages everyone to consider what songs would be in the soundtrack of their life to raise awareness of playlists as a powerful intervention benefitting people living with dementia.
Mehar Shagufta, Policy and Public Affairs Officer at Playlist for Life, said:
“It’s very encouraging to see this recognition of the power of personalised playlists for dementia in the Scottish Parliament during World Alzheimer’s Month. It follows a mention of Playlist for Life in the Scottish Government’s Dementia Strategy, published last year.
We want everyone with dementia in Scotland to have access to a personalised playlist and for it to become standard in care and support. There’s no cure for dementia, but meaningful music can be a lifeline for those living with the condition, and those who love and care for them.”
The motion recognises National Playlist Day, taking place on Friday 20th September. Find out more and get involved.
