Mental Wellness Through Music: Lochgelly Band's Triumph with the Happiness Fund

Lochgelly Band are based in the town of Lochgelly, which is in the county of Fife in Scotland. The band were formed sometime during the early to mid 19th century, although the first recorded instance of a brass band in the town dates from 1854, so this is generally regarded as the date of formation.  

The band has had a resurgence since Lyndsey McIlwraith joined. Her energy and ambition to make sure the band has a home is incredible. After raising funds to refurbish the local small community hall, work got underway to mend the roof and make the hall disability friendly.  

As well as this, the band entered competitions, raising awareness of the benefits of music for mental well-being. The band is now flourishing, with new members joining all the time. Not only that but realising the benefits of learning a musical instrument, Lyndsey wanted to engage young people. So, she entered our Happiness Fund and won £5,000, which will allow her to buy up to ten brass instruments designed specifically for young people, supporting mental wellbeing and creating new band members of the future. 

We’ll be interviewing Lyndsey soon about the positive impact the fund has had on the community and band, so stay ‘tuned’ for more. 

For more information about funding, head on over to our Happiness Fund page.