Making mental health matter:
A Songs & Smiles celebration on Haringey’s Great Mental Health Day
On Friday, 31st January 2025, Haringey will come alive with joy and connection as we celebrate Great Mental Health Day, a borough-wide initiative promoting wellbeing and community. At The Together Project, we’re excited to contribute to this special day with a Songs & Smiles session at Lorenco House, College Road, Tottenham, N17 8EA, at 11am.
Songs & Smiles is more than just a music group. It’s a joyful, intergenerational experience that unites families with young children and older people living in care settings. Through the magic of music, laughter, and connection, these sessions bring profound benefits to everyone involved.
Why mental health matters to us
For many parents, mental health challenges can feel isolating. Our Head of Operations, Alexa Sutheran, shares her experience from her early parenting days as a Songs & Smiles attendee:
"Parenting can be overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating mental health struggles. After the birth of my daughter, I was diagnosed with postnatal depression. Attending Songs & Smiles became a safe haven for me—a place where I felt seen, supported, and connected to others. Having a routine and knowing the residents were looking forward to seeing us gave me the motivation to get out and about. Knowing that my family was bringing joy to others, even during our own challenges, helped me focus on the bigger picture. Watching my children share moments of joy with older people was truly special."
After such a profound experience, Alexa began volunteering at the sessions. Gaining confidence over time, she went on to lead sessions and ultimately worked her way up to become Head of Operations at The Together Project.
Alexa Sutheran, Head of Operations, The Together Project
Alexa’s story highlights the power of building community through simple, meaningful interactions. For parents and guardians with young children, these sessions offer a chance to connect, play, and grow in an environment that nurtures mental wellbeing. For older residents, Songs & Smiles provides companionship, joy, and a sense of belonging that can be truly transformative.
How Songs & Smiles supports parental mental health
Parenting can often feel isolating, especially for those navigating mental health challenges. Songs & Smiles offers a welcoming space where parents and guardians can take a break from daily stresses and enjoy quality time with their child in a supportive environment. These sessions are designed to foster bonding through music and play, while also providing opportunities to connect with other families facing similar experiences.
As Alexa explains:
"Songs & Smiles reminded me that I wasn't alone on this journey. Sharing smiles and songs with other parents, and seeing my child build connections with older people, has been a true source of comfort and joy."
For many parents, the chance to step out of their routine, engage in a meaningful activity, and form connections with others can have a profound and lasting positive impact on their mental health.
What to expect at Songs & Smiles
Our sessions are designed to be relaxed, welcoming, and fun. Expect a lively mix of singing, movement, and shared smiles. Whether it’s a toddler’s giggle or an older resident’s warm smile, every moment contributes to a deeper sense of connection across generations.
The session at Lorenco House is open to the older people living there and families of 0-4 year olds who want to experience the power of togetherness. Great Mental Health Day is the perfect opportunity to see how these small acts of joy can make a big difference.
Join us on Great Mental Health Day
Don’t miss this special opportunity to celebrate Great Mental Health Day with us. Book your space and join us at Lorenco House at 11am and experience the magic of Songs & Smiles firsthand!
Together, let’s make Great Mental Health Day a celebration of intergenerational connection, joy, and wellbeing.