A sea shanty and coastal music choir in Lowestoft is offering carers in the community a chance for a moment of respite.

East Anglian Daily Times: THe choir meets every two weeks at The Seagull Theatre in Lowestoft. Picture: LIVE CONSULTANCYTHe choir meets every two weeks at The Seagull Theatre in Lowestoft. Picture: LIVE CONSULTANCY (Image: Archant)

The Voice cLoud, which meets fortnightly at the town’s Seagull Theatre, offers members time to themselves to help alleviate stress, isolation and exhaustion.

Stephen Amer, co-founder of The Voice cLoud said: “Over a third of our members who come along to the group are full or part-time carers for a member of their family - this can be the only thing they do for themselves and their own enjoyment.

“It’s therefore highly important they have a break from the day to day worries being a caregiver can bring.

“Caregiver stress - the emotional and physical stress of caregiving - is common.

“By singing, our caregivers have an outlet for their emotions, which is not only therapeutic but is a great stress buster too.”

Choir member Sarah Warner, who looks after her husband, added: “Within the group we all face our own challenges and problems, but this gives us an opportunity to pause what’s going on in our lives for a moment - every fortnight I go home with a smile on my face, singing, and I’m happy.”

The project was set up using money raised by HeathIntend CIC through The Health Lottery.