Musicians are invited to help entertain patients on the Great Western Hospital’s new dementia-friendly ward Jupiter.

It is hoped live performances in the Swindon hospital’s ward will be of massive enjoyment to patients, many of whom have dementia.

Wendy Johnson, divisional matron for care of the older person and the matron lead for dementia, said: “It is well known that music has both a physical and psychological therapeutic effect.

“As an acute care environment we are always looking for ways in which we can make the in-patient experience more interesting and enjoyable.”

Listening to live music can calm patients and research has shown dementia patients who are at ease are more likely to eat their meals, sleep better at night and have an improved immune system.

Any musicians who can play a one or two-hour set of easy listening music can contact 01793 607333 or email wendy.johnson@gwh.nhs.uk