A Felixstowe-based charity that helps people to live independently across east Suffolk is asking people to donate their unwanted musical instruments.

Access Community Trust supports people living with mental health issues and a lack of training, education and qualifications.

The charity is asking for help to enable it to use music to build self-confidence and new skills to people in the area with a new project called Music To Our Ears.

Lee Johnson, arts and culture education co-ordinator from Access Community Trust, said: “Our customers come from all walks of life and Access is helping those that are finding it hard sometimes to socialise for one reason or another.

“The programme will be used to help bring our residents together, to learn and develop their music skills.

“Anyone will be able to take part from a first time player to the more experienced amongst us.

“Who knows, the next Darkness could be within Access Community Trust.”

One of those the project will help is 19-year-old music-lover Beth, who lives at one of Access Community Trust’s housing related support projects.

After a period of homelessness, a battle with addition, and involvement in crime, Beth is turning her life around.

“I started playing the piano from a young age and it’s really good for my mental health because it just clears my mind and helps me to forget things,” she said. “I really enjoy playing and being creative.

“I think everyone should have access to music and be able to learn an instrument, it’s good for the soul.”

The charity hopes that local people will be able to help them to expand the project.

Mr Johnson added: “I know children can quickly grow out of musical instruments and they end up in the back of a cupboard or somewhere, and we would love the use of them to help transform the lives of some very vulnerable people in our community.”

Those who have an instrument to donate can take it to the Felixstowe Foyer on Maidstone Road in Felixstowe.

Anyone who needs help in donating items, or who would like to find out more about the project, can contact Lee Johnson on 07388992923 or email him on lee.johnson@accessct.org