OUR STORY
Initially launched in 2019, our group has showcased the transformative impact of rhythm and music on both individual participants and community wellbeing. Through regular drum circle sessions, Drum 4UR Life has offered a creative outlet for self-expression, stress relief, and social connection.
The growing team of facilitators continues to expand through VMC training, fostering transformation, improved wellbeing, strong friendships, and engagement across diverse communities.
Jeanette Allan
Jeanette, a specialist mental health Occupational Therapist, RAMH Wellbeing & Recovery College Manager, and Drum Circle Facilitator, initiated and nurtures a movement of drumming for wellbeing. She fosters engagement in the arts for mental health, empowering people in recovery and developing peers who inspire others.
In 2019, the success of the Buddy Beat project led to the creation of a new initiative in North Ayrshire. Jeanette, now working with RAMH, collaborated with Jane Bentley to establish a Drumming for Wellbeing course, which became part of the Recovery College curriculum and evolved into the community drumming group, Drum 4UR Life. This project built on the original model by training Peer Drum Circle Facilitators with lived mental health experience.
The Recovery College runs a monthly Drum Circle Facilitators Mentor and Training programme, supporting the ongoing development of peer facilitators.
Dr Jane Bentley
Drum 4UR Life was birthed as part of the North Ayrshire Recovery College’s 12-week drumming for wellbeing course. The course led by Dr Jane Bentley, a renowned community drum circle facilitator, was funded by the Alliance Self-Management Fund. The project involved not only training new drummers but involved the development of three trainee drum facilitators. RAMH who co-ordinate the Recovery College on behalf of North Ayrshire HSCP, also contributed funding for the trainees to attend a 3 day residential drumming training course to enhance their learning.
Michelle Connolly
Michelle was enrolled as a community musician in a 12-week drumming course led by Dr Jane Bentley, where she supported and developed the sessions. This role also created future collaboration opportunities with RAMH North Ayrshire Wellbeing & Recovery College.
Drum 4UR Life has empowered individuals to train as drum circle facilitators, enabling them to lead sessions within their own communities. Facilitators are supported by Michelle, appointed as Project Co-ordinator in 2024, and the elected committee.
Michelle, plays a key part in developing the facilitator team and expanding the group's reach, creating an inclusive environment where participants can thrive and fully benefit from the sessions.