Supporting children’s wellbeing through music participation during the COVID-19 pandemic: evidence from Scotland

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of strengthening the health and wellbeing of children as a global priority. This paper explores the impact of an inclusive music programme, that was delivered, prior to and during the pandemic, in an area of deprivation in Scotland. The main research question was, ‘How does an inclusive music programme support wellbeing of children living in areas of multiple deprivation during COVID?’. Multiple perspectives and data collection methods were included, e.g. comic strips, interviews, focus groups and questionnaires. Results suggest that the programme provided continuity and stability to children, especially during lockdown. All participants highlighted the positive impact the programme had on the emotional wellbeing of children, which was linked to a sense of security and trusting relationships that were formed as part of the programme, not only during COVID but prior to it too.