A Lifestyle’s Coordinator at Tŷ Enfys, our industry-leading care home in Cardiff has received an MBE for his services to health and social care during the pandemic in Her Majesty’s birthday honour’s list.
Ben Cowley, who has worked at our residential, dementia and nursing home since 2016 received the honour for working above the expectations of his role by using his skills as a musician to support and comfort older people. He did this offering regular reminiscence therapy groups and singing groups, using music to aid connection between families and residents during video calls, filling in gaps from lost activity provisions due to Covid-19, playing piano in the corridors when social distancing was in place, and taking over the weekly church service in order to allow residents to continue practicing their faith.
Ben Cowley said: “I am still in disbelief to be recognised by Her Majesty, the Queen in this way. It feels extra special because I have seen how important the Royal Family are too, to many of our residents. I have been really excited to share the news with them all. To be recognised in the same way I have seen happen to many of my personal heroes is difficult to put into words. For me this honour isn’t just about me. It’s a celebration of real experiences and the vital part music plays in keeping us all connected, inspired and hopeful. Where words fail, music speaks.”
General Manager of Tŷ Enfys Care Home, Sujjata Singh said: “Ben specialises in music therapy and has a unique passion for supporting residents living with dementia. He is able to calm down their anxiety with his music therapy. He has won awards with the National Activity Providers Association for his contribution of music. I am delighted that his passion for music and using it effectively with people living with dementia has been recognised. I wish him every success in his future endeavours.”