Music therapy supporting neurological patients at Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton

Music therapy is transforming care for patients at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, helping support rehabilitation, improve wellbeing and create a calmer atmosphere on the neurology ward.

The therapy is increasingly recognised as a valuable tool for supporting people with complex neurological conditions at University Hospitals Sussex.

Dr Eva Bunting, Consultant Neurologist at UHSussex, explains:

“Many of our patients face long stays in hospital, uncertainty around diagnosis, and the emotional impact of living with life-long illnesses. Music therapy offers a unique way to connect with patients and bring moments of joy and engagement during what can be a very challenging time.”

Sessions are delivered by music therapist Joe Jezard, who works closely with clinical teams to tailor each interaction to the individual needs of patients.

Joe said: “Music can meet anyone exactly where they are. For some patients, it opens up new ways to express themselves; for others, it helps reconnect physical, emotional, or social pathways that an illness has disrupted. Even small moments of engagement can make a meaningful difference.”

The initiative forms part of UHSussex’s wider commitment to providing excellent care everywhere and improving patient experience through evidence-based, person-centred approaches.

Dr Eva Bunting continues: “Research shows that musical engagement can support relaxation, stimulate interaction, and improve emotional wellbeing for patients stepping down from intensive care.

“These findings inspired us to explore how music could complement traditional therapies and enhance recovery for patients with conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, encephalitis, spinal cord injuries and multiple sclerosis.”

Although clinically led and embedded within UHSussex’s approach to holistic care, the service is made possible through Nordoff and Robbins, the UK's largest music therapy charity, and My Charity, the dedicated charity supporting NHS hospitals across Sussex.

Steve Crump, Director of Charities and Voluntary Services at My Charity said: “Exceptional care goes far beyond clinical provision; it’s about treating the whole person. That’s why we are incredibly proud to fund music therapy as part of our Small Acts of Friendship programme.

“Alongside massage, hairdressing, and art therapy services, music therapy is having a direct, positive impact on patient mental well-being and the speed of their physical recovery.

“To ensure this vital support continues across our seven hospitals, we are thrilled to launch our new campaign: ‘Brighton Rocks’. We are calling on our community to donate unwanted and unused guitars, which will be transformed into unique works of art by talented local artists and signed by legendary musicians. These will be displayed later this year and then auctioned, with every penny raised going directly toward music therapy.”

Working together with charities is central to how UHSussex delivers care. By strengthening these partnerships, the Trust hopes to expand the reach of holistic services across its hospitals and continue improving the experience of patients across Sussex.

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