A performing arts and community organisation based in Bridport is helping to raise funds for music therapy for children affected by the conflict in Ukraine. 

Opera Circus UK, leaders behind the international youth arts project, The Complete Freedom of Truth, who are also part of the partnership the develops Edible Gardens in Bridport primary schools, are supporting a project to use music to tackle trauma cause by the war. 

They have worked with Emeritus Professor of Music, Nigel Osborne, for nearly 20 years, including organising his visits to Bridport several times over the years.

He is one of the world's experts in the use of music to tackle trauma caused by war and conflict, as well as with disabled people and in particular with children.

Professor Osborne is currently teaching students at postgraduate level at several universities in Ukraine.

The regular schedule consists of a monthly week-long trip to Ukraine to teach in person and lead workshops with children alongside trainees, followed by weekly online lectures.

The practical workshops with children take place in locations across the country, including orphanages and hospitals, supervised by Nigel and his team of local and international colleagues. 

Many more locations are expected be added as the student training part of the programme begins in the months ahead, and as the programme expands to meet demand, extra workshop leaders and lecturers will be required.

A crowdfunding campaign has been launched to raise £5,000 to cover the costs of Nigel and his team's expenses.

Donations can be made online at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/music-therapy-for-children-in-ukraine