A Hertfordshire-based charity who have dedicated themselves to using the power of music to enhance the learning of disabled people have launched a new campaign.
Electric Umbrella which was set up five years ago by Kings Langley resident Mel Boda and Tom Billington has launched their ‘Plug In’ campaign inviting people across the UK to join their community.
The charity which provides a platform for learning disabled people to enjoy live music turned to online sessions during the pandemic with fun interactive shows and singalongs to help members through difficult times.
The campaign features four amazing ambassadors from the charity including Jonathon, Ryan and his mum Jenny from Hertfordshire as well as Farrah and Amy from other areas in the UK.
Jonathan Watson, 22, from Tring in Hertfordshire is a long-term member of Electric Umbrella. He has severe OCD and anxiety.
Electric Umbrella participant Jonathan, said he loves being on stage and is proud to be part of the Electric Umbrella family.
He said: “The first concert I did I was excited but nervous at the same time. When I managed to get myself singing and playing the drums everyone was just like wow
“I was jumping on stage, I never felt so happy in my life for a long, long time, and just seeing a lot of people happy and knowing I’ve made them feel happy makes me feel really proud of myself.
“Electric Umbrella helped me to get the confidence to sing and they feel like an amazing family.”
Electric Umbrella participant Jenny Young, said the charity is like a family for herself and her son Ryan.
She said: “Ryan has a great sense of humour and he’s known as an entertainer.
“Electric Umbrella has become a bit like a family for us because there are so many other parents of people with special needs so there are people I can go to for advice.”
Electric Umbrella Creative Director and co-founder Tom Billington said they are inviting others to become part of their community who are “so full of energy and embrace life with such enthusiasm.”
He said: “When the pandemic started we found new ways to bring music to our members by starting online sessions and we discovered this is a brilliant way to reach so many more people.
“We’ve created this amazing community online which is why we have launched this campaign Plug In to encourage others to join Electric Umbrella online sessions.”
Mel Boda, Electric Umbrella’s chief executive and co-founder added: “We’re inviting people to plug in, switch on, and get ready for the ride of their life with this campaign. Everything has been co-produced with our ambassadors, of which all our ambassadors have been absolute superstars!
“We want everyone to experience the joy and power of music and see how it brings people together from all walks of life.
“Best of all, it’s completely free to join Electric Umbrella, and you don’t need any referral from your local authority.”
For more information visit electricumbrella.co.uk
Picture credit Electric Umbrella
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