THE music therapy program at the New England Conservatorium of Music has been saved following a $15,000 lifeline from the State Government.
Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall was told the future of the program was in serious doubt, but last week’s grant would keep it operational.
NECOM director Susanne James said the surprise funding would make a considerable and much-needed addition to the program.
“The news has come as a wonderful surprise and I must admit, is a great relief financially,” she said.
“Our sincere thanks go to Adam Marshall for his ongoing support and to Arts Minister George Souris for this special one-off grant.”
The music therapy program, which costs more than $60,000 annually to run, provides services to children from 18 months of age up to adults, who have a variety of different needs ranging from autism spectrum disorder, behavioural disorders and acquired brain injury.
“NECOM’s music therapist Natalie Nugent is the only qualified professional in this specialised field in the New England region and the therapy is provided not only to children, young people and adults but to their carers and family members who need support to continue with their ongoing care,” Mr Marshall said.
“The clients are from the most disadvantaged and vulnerable sector of the community.
“Through this program NECOM provides an invaluable service to Armidale and communities of the New England and thoroughly deserves this support.”
The Armidale Central Rotary Club, Armidale City Bowling Club, Armidale Dumaresq Lions Club and the Vincent Fairfax Foundation have also provided financial support for the program.
