Sheffield Hospitals Charity fund innovative sessions to support women with long-term health conditions
The charity funded a year-long programme of Relax, Breathe and Sing sessions, supporting women living with long-term health conditions to improve their mental and physical wellbeing through music and community.
The free weekly sessions were created to provide a safe, inclusive space where women can take part in a gentle and enjoyable activity with proven benefits. These include reducing anxiety, improving mood and confidence, supporting breath control and easing feelings of breathlessness.
Each session combines relaxation, breathing techniques and easy-to-learn harmony singing. The approach helps participants regain control over their breathing, develop techniques to breathe more freely and experience the social and emotional benefits of singing together.
The sessions are well attended and inclusive, offering interpreter support for women with limited English. Songs are drawn from a range of cultures and languages, alongside wordless melodies, enabling everyone to participate regardless of language or previous singing experience.
While singing is not a treatment for chronic illness, evaluation of the programme shows clear positive outcomes. Women reported reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, improved mood and confidence, and increased social connection. Many also described feeling calmer after sessions, with some noticing improvements in breathing and vocal strength.
The programme has supported women attending pain clinics, including those living with conditions such as myalgic encephalomyelitis, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). It is a long-term condition that can affect different parts of the body, and the most common symptom is extreme tiredness.
Mir Jansen, Arts Coordinator at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust:
“The Relax, Breathe and Sing sessions with this international group of Muslim women have been an extraordinary experience for all of us. When we began this weekly group, many participants had little or no prior experience of singing in a group, and most had only a limited knowledge of English, which made communication challenging. Yet, with time, the dedication of volunteers, and a spirit of learning and perseverance, we overcame many barriers.
“Now, a year later, we have clear evidence of the positive impact. The women report feeling more relaxed and calmer after each session. They enjoy the songs they sing and each other’s company, and they look forward to attending every week. Some have even noted improvements in their breathing and vocal strength. This project has demonstrated the power of music, community, and resilience and we hope it will continue to bring joy and benefits for many more years to come.”
Published: Friday 23rd of January 2026