'Inimitable' music and dementia charity boss steps down

Lost Chord UK has confirmed the resignation of Clare Langan as chief executive of the Maltby-based charity which provides interactive musical sessions for people living with dementia in care homes, day centres and in the wider community across Yorkshire and nationally.

Professional flautist Clare – herself a Lost Chord UK musician for many years – took on the role of chief executive two years ago at a critical time as the pandemic had a huge impact on the charity's ability to share music with residents.

Benjamin Frith, chair of trustees, said: “Together with our musicians and volunteers, Clare developed inspirational initiatives to allow and enable music to come back fully into the lives of people living with dementia.

“As well as the day-to-day management, Clare has modernised, given hundreds of interviews, performed and even run a marathon to help raise funds, inspiring us all by her passion and commitment to take the charity forward.”

Clare introduced initiatives during her leadership, including bedside one-to-one sessions for solitary residents at care homes.

She was also instrumental in launching the community choirs and the development of the popular Soup and Song sessions.

“We know Clare will always be a friend to Lost Chord UK and she has developed the story of our charity in her own inimitable way,” said Benjamin.

“We will all miss her infectious enthusiasm and wish her all the very best for her future projects.”