MK Community Foundation Funds Silent Disco Headsets

Thanks to a successful MK Community Foundation funding application, we purchased 100 silent disco headsets. The special headsets enable users to choose their music, including the volume and how long they want to be part of the disco which helps those with learning disabilities and autism.
 
We have increased the number of individuals we support over the past five years from 40 to 77. This increase has coincided with a rise in the number of residents with autism at Camphill MK and so it felt that our regular disco programme was no longer suitable for all of our community. As part of Autism Awareness Week, we trialled a silent disco set-up by hiring equipment, and we experienced a happier, more relaxed community that articulated that future discos should continue to be ‘silent’. The special headsets enable individuals to choose their music preferences, as several channels enable attendees to pick their tracks. A neurotypical individual may select a pub or club that suits their musical taste, but it is harder for a resident of Camphill MK to go to a standard venue. They are more likely to attend an event where they know the exact parameters of the space and people around them and won’t suffer the judgement of people who don’t understand their disability. For some, their only opportunity for this type of music event will be Camphill MK Silent Discos, so we have broadened the way individuals can experience activity on-site.
 
It is well known that music can provide a form of therapy, and we have found significant value in engaging (especially new) residents in music as a way to develop relationships. The silent disco model encourages and enables individuals to engage in a social interaction they may usually avoid, enabling them to build relationships. By bringing individuals together through discos, expressing themselves in public, and building their self-confidence, new relationships are forged, uniting a community that spends time together working and learning.
 
We launched our new equipment at the Festival of Camphill in July 2024, where we shared our silent disco experience with individuals from 14 other Camphill’s. It will continue to be used as part of our social calendar. Keep an eye on our socials for upcoming Silent Discos.