She was the driving force behind Ex Cathedra’s Singing Medicine project, which she continues to co-lead 20 years later. The project brings singing for wellbeing to children in hospital, including those who are extremely vulnerable in protective isolation. During the pandemic, Sally and the Singing Medicine team created thousands of personalised music videos for children when in-person visits were not possible.
 
Sally brings together her extensive nursing experience with her passion for music to her leadership and compassionate support of the Singing Medicine team enabling them to work in what can be distressing situations, such as delivering singing sessions at end-of-life care. Sally was integral in adapting Singing Medicine to support adults affected by stroke and dementia, making a significant impact in these areas as well.

“I’m truly honoured to win, but this recognition really belongs to the whole Ex Cathedra Singing Medicine team. Every week, we go into the hospital to bring music and singing-play to children, responding and adapting to their needs – whether it’s soothing a newborn with lullabies or engaging a teenager in a musical game. Singing Medicine allows me to offer joy, relief and distraction to the children and their families. Our songs and singing-play aim to give them a little bit of control where often they have none. This award means a lot to me because it acknowledges the importance of what we do. As a nurse working in hospital daily, I believe the benefits of Singing Medicine are not just nice, but absolutely necessary for patients and their families.”