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One of the unintended consequences of Covid-19 has been how communities have galvanized to support those in need in their area. Many families have either lost their income or seen it reduced and have had to seek help from support services such as Foodbanks. The Kingsmen Barbershop Harmony Club is doing what it can to support its community by making some generous donations to the Kingsbridge and Ivybridge Foodbanks. ‘We call it Community Immunity’, said Chairman Stuart Newberry.

‘During lockdown, we felt it was the least we could do. Our members come from these communities and we felt that we wanted to support the valuable work that the Foodbanks are doing.’ (See our Blog post and video of 23rd May for more information). The Chorus is well known for its fundraising activities at concerts and events across South Devon, but all plans had to be curtailed, including traditional rehearsals. ‘We were coming up to our busy period with weddings, parties as well as supporting other organisations fundraise. All our public appearances had to stop and with that we’ve missed opportunities to raise money for important good causes.’

Horsemanship for Health and the Kingsmen

One such organisation is Horsemanship for Health based near Newton Abbot whose work with horses is supporting men’s and women’s mental health. It so happens to be the Chairman’s Charity for 2020 and the Chorus had already started to raise funds in support of their operation.

Their need became even greater because of Covid-19 impacting on their ability to generate income via courses and therapy work. ‘We decided to donate a substantial sum to Horsemanship for Health quite early on in lockdown, knowing they could use our support to sustain their operation’ said Stuart.

And it was at a virtual rehearsal via Zoom that Founder and Director of Horsemanship for Health was able to join the Kingsmen to say ‘thankyou’ and explain the work they carry out, particularly with men’s mental health including male patients at Langdon Hospital, Dawlish. ‘We are really grateful to the Kingsmen for their donation’ said Belinda. ‘It was quite an anxious time and this really helped us through a difficult period.’

The Chorus was planning a fundraising event with Belinda for Horsemanship for Health but that’s had to be postponed. ‘We’re hoping we can create some sort of a fundraiser later in the year as and when we can get singing again.’ You can find out more information about Horsemanship for Health from their web site: https://belindaseaward.com/horsemanship-for-health/