Playlist for Life: Embedding Personalised Music in Scotland's Dementia Care
This presentation will explore how Playlist for Life is working with NHS and social care partners to embed personalised music into dementia care. Delegates will learn how this evidence-based, non-pharmacological approach supports people living with dementia to manage distress, improve wellbeing and maintain meaningful connections.
Through case studies and partnership projects across three Scottish health boards, the presentation will highlight practical approaches to workforce development, digital inclusion and sustainable implementation. It will also share lessons learned, demonstrate benefits for patients, families and staff, and outline plans to develop a scalable model for wider adoption across dementia care services
Speakers
Rebecca Kennedy
Head of Communities, Playlist for Life
Music Not Medication - Supporting Patients within Acute Mental Health Care
This presentation will explore how the Music Not Medication initiative was introduced within an acute mental health ward to support patients experiencing anxiety, agitation and emotional distress.
By using personalised music playlists as an early intervention, staff were able to offer a meaningful, person-centred alternative to PRN medication where clinically appropriate. The project demonstrated improvements in emotional regulation, patient wellbeing and therapeutic relationships, while reducing reliance on medication. Delegates will gain insight into how this simple, low-cost intervention was embedded into routine practice and the positive outcomes achieved for both patients and staff.
Speakers
Darren Lewis
Staff Nurse, NHS Fife