Part of our team had the pleasure of attending the launch of new research into music therapy at Caritas Bakhita House, presented at St Mary's University, Twickenham. The study explores how music therapy can create spaces for freedom, agency and hope for women rebuilding their lives after experiences of modern slavery and human trafficking. The event brought together researchers, practitioners and supporters to share learning from several years of practice and evaluation.
Since 2023, the Signatur Programme has supported the work of Caritas Bakhita House, which provides a safe home and specialist support for women recovering from exploitation and trafficking. Attending the launch offered a valuable opportunity to hear directly from those involved in the programme and to learn more about the role music plays within the wider support offered by the organisation.
One of the most encouraging aspects of the report is the way it centres the voices and experiences of the women themselves. While we will share more reflections on the findings in the future, the research offers thoughtful evidence of how music can contribute to building connection, confidence, agency and hope.
We are grateful to everyone involved in this important work and delighted to see this learning being shared more widely. We encourage readers to explore both the report and Caritas Westminster's coverage of the launch.