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Singing group offers mental health boost at The Grand, Gravesend

A singing group is helping people with mental health struggles and anxiety by challenging them to get out of their comfort zone.

Harry's Hits is a new weekly session for people of all ages at The Grand community centre in Gravesend where they get to duet with staff member Harry Souten.

Harry Souten singing duets with members of the public and the GYG adult singing group at The Grand in Gravesend.

The customer service officer came up with the idea after attending the Gifted Young Generation (GYG) adult singing group, which is also held at The Grand.

The group really helped Harry so it has inspired him to launch his own singing sessions to support others.

Harry (on the right) singing with a member of the public in new social media series Harry's Hits
Harry (on the right) singing with a member of the public in new social media series Harry's Hits

The GYG adult singing group came together to help those suffering with low mental health, anxiety and wellbeing.

Lessons are held at The Grand every Monday from 6.30am to 8.30pm, when members can learn how to sing solo or in a choir.

It has been supported by One You, a programme run by the NHS to help people make healthy changes, and the GYG team at The Grand.

Singing coaching has also been led by MOBO award winner Volney Morgan.

The choir performed its first live sold-out showcase event at Three Daws in Gravesend in April.

The GYG adult singing group
The GYG adult singing group

Harry said: "I attended a handful of sessions and managed to put my nerves aside and sang for the first time in front of an audience.

"The reception and love I received helped me and my confidence and from there Harry's Hits was born."

It was fellow colleague and youth work manager Jackie Coupar who suggested he start his own series to get members of the community to express themselves through singing.

The Grand aims to post a video of the duets once a week to showcase Kent's talent.

The singing group is held every Monday
The singing group is held every Monday

Harry said the feedback so far has been positive with people saying it has made them happier and improved their wellbeing.

The 26-year-old loves diva pop ballads and likes to channel his inner Whitney Houston and Beyoncé.

Having said that he is not afraid to try a bit of country music and R&B as well.

If anyone wants to go to The Grand and sing a duet with Harry as part of the Harry's Hits series, send them a message on Facebook.

Visit www.facebook.com/grand.gravesend

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