A performing arts group is supporting children and their mental health during lockdown with free virtual singing lessons.

Little Voices West Kent, based in Gillingham, is offering parents access to free pre-recorded singing lessons for their children.

Little Voices pupils singing Little Becomes Big as part of Children’s Activities Week in 2019. Video: Little Voices Youtube

Singing is proven to relieve stress and anxiety and improves mental health.

Because of the benefits of singing, Little Voices is aiming to help as many children as possible through song.

The group is offering four free singing lessons to support mental wellbeing during the third lockdown.

Principal of Little Voices West Kent, Kerry Gaughran, said “We are so thrilled to welcome our pupils every week.

"In our lessons we practise skills to help them develop their voices.

"Happiness and fun are central to our lessons so is friendship and talking.

"These ingredients are helping children's mental wellbeing stay healthy during lockdown.”

This week marks the seventh annual Children's Mental Health Week and with the extra pressures of lockdown is more important than ever to ensure children are happy and healthy.

There are a host of activities and advice to help look after youngsters and key signs to spot if things don't appear to be right.

Parents interested in the Little Voices scheme need to fill out a short form and the lessons will be sent via email once a week for four weeks.

Kerry said: "At any time children are welcome to trial our lessons virtually too.

"It’s fun to see them interacting and being with friends."

After the four free virtual lessons, Little Voices offer singing lessons for three separate age groups:

Mini Voices ages four to seven, which is £43 a month.

Little Voices ages seven to 12, which is £60 a month.

And Older voices ages 12-18, which is £63 a month.

The monthly payments cover the prices of uniforms, lessons and exams.

Steph Gaisie, Vice Principal of Little Voices West Kent, said: "This is a good opportunity for kids to express themselves in lockdown.

"It is helping them cope while they're not going to school."

Every parent can access the free pre-recorded lessons by clicking here littlevoices.org.uk/free-lockdown-lessons.

For more information about lessons in your area visit littlevoices.org.uk/westkent.

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