Anglia Ruskin University

Anglia Ruskin University has been raising funds for music therapy for many years towards the work of the music therapy clinic, based on our Cambridge campus, and for the teaching of our music therapy students. The funds raised have helped provide instruments for the clinic as well as for travel bursaries for students to support the costs of travelling to work placements.

Music therapy uses improvised music to treat people suffering from learning difficulties, autism, dementia, depression and a whole range of mental disabilities. Music therapy has also made a key contribution to patient care for those suffering as a result of physical or sexual abuse, HIV or post-traumatic stress. Working through live interactive music or through listening to music can help relationships and improve psychological health for many people so music therapists interact with patients through music, establishing a means of communication without always using words

Music Therapy at Anglia Ruskin was established on the Cambridge campus in 1994 and, in addition to providing the first MA in Music Therapy training in the UK, the department is a centre for excellence in research. In 2005, our Music Therapy Clinic was opened, serving the community in Cambridgeshire and the surrounding area. We provide treatment for many local groups, charities and voluntary organisations, private individuals as well as statutory health, education and social services.