K E Key Enterprises

K|E is a long-established provider of day services to adults across the region with learning disabilities/difficulties, mental health needs, autism and acquired brain injuries. From our base in North Tyneside, individuals can develop practical skills in a supportive real-work setting, whilst building confidence, making friendships and experiencing achievement. K|E operates several departments including a practical workshop, outdoor adventures, gardening, life skills, art, craft and activities, in which service users are encouraged to develop new skills or expand upon existing ones. Previously, our service centred around hard outcomes through the promotion of hands-on, practical skills within a predominantly male culture. Changes in need enabled a marked shift in culture at K|E, including the expansion of our service to women. The changes coincide with a keener focus on soft skills and the recent development of our creative programme. As part of this shift in our service offer, we implemented a rolling programme of creative activities at K|E, including art workshops, drama sessions and a choir. We also work together with music therapy charity, Nordoff & Robbins. The benefits of music therapy are wide ranging; from building communication skills, aiding cognitive function and boosting confidence. The outcomes, however, are not limited to the confines of the sessions themselves. Evidence shows that music therapy has the potential to benefit individuals on a psychosocial, neurological and behavioural level, impacting participants in ways that spill into their everyday lives.