A harmonious new chapter for Lewis-Manning with the new Rising Voices Choir
In the heart of Dorset’s caring community, a beautiful new harmony is taking shape as Lewis-Manning Hospice Care joins forces with Rising Voices Wessex—bringing together compassionate care and the uplifting power of music.
For those who may not yet know them, Lewis-Manning Hospice Care is Dorset’s independent hospice charity, offering free, person-centred support to people living with life-limiting illnesses, as well as their families and carers. With a focus on helping people live well for longer, their work extends far beyond traditional hospice care—supporting wellbeing, independence, and connection across communities.
Lewis-Manning Rising Voices Choir
Now, in an exciting new chapter, the charity has merged with Rising Voices Wessex, a much-loved Poole-based choir founded by clinical professionals in 2012. Since launching its first choir in 2013, Rising Voices has created a safe, welcoming space where people affected by cancer can come together to sing, share, and support one another.
As part of the merger, the group will now be known as the Lewis-Manning Rising Voices Choir—a name that reflects both its musical roots and its strengthened future. The partnership opens the door for even more people across east Dorset and Purbeck to experience the emotional and physical benefits of singing, alongside others who truly understand their journey.
Bringing people together
Clare Gallie, Chief Executive of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, shared her enthusiasm:
“We are delighted to welcome Rising Voices Wessex into the Lewis-Manning family. Music brings people together, lifts their spirits, and supports emotional wellbeing.
“Our approach to hospice care considers the whole person, not only their clinical needs. Bringing Rising Voices into Lewis-Manning expands the ways people in Dorset can connect, build confidence, and access meaningful support in their community. Singing brings so many real health benefits. It can lift mood, improve breathing, build confidence, and reduce feelings of loneliness by bringing people together through a shared experience.”
Adding his support, Dorset’s Lord-Lieutenant and patron of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, Professor Michael Dooley, said:
“I am delighted to see the coming together of Rising Voices Wessex with Lewis-Manning Hospice Care – an inspiring union of two organisations making a real difference in our community.
“As His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, a doctor, and a proud patron of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, I am also delighted to see Rising Voices Wessex bringing the joy and power of music into this partnership, enriching the lives of patients, families and the wider community.”
The 'unique power in music to bring people together,'
For members of the choir, the merger ensures not only continuity but exciting growth. Backed by Lewis-Manning’s resources and expanding network of community hubs, the choir will continue to offer its signature warmth and sense of belonging—now with even greater reach.
Noeline Young, Chair of Rising Voices Wessex, reflected on the journey:
“Through singing together, Rising Voices has created a supportive community where members find friendship, understanding, support, and encouragement. It’s a pleasure to see so many people having fun and connecting with a group that truly understands what each other are going through.
“Merging with Lewis-Manning Hospice Care allows the choir to grow and reach more people who may benefit from the support and sense of community the choir provides.”
Weekly rehearsals will now take place on Tuesday evenings at Lewis-Manning’s Longfleet Road hub, offering a relaxed and welcoming introduction for new members. The sessions are part of the charity’s forward-thinking, anticipatory approach—supporting people earlier in their illness to help them maintain independence, wellbeing, and strong social connections.
Michael Dooley added:
“There is a unique power in music to bring people together, improve health and wellbeing, and create a true sense of belonging – and this union captures that purpose beautifully. It brings a real sense of harmony into the community, uniting people across Dorset.
“I have seen – and the evidence clearly shows – the profoundly positive impact that music and community connection can have on both physical and mental health. What I find particularly inspiring is the way in which charities coming together in this way amplify their impact – combining compassion, creativity and care to reach more people and provide deeper, more holistic support. Bringing a much-loved local choir into the heart of a leading hospice charity strengthens the support offered to patients and their families, and stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved through unity of purpose.”
Clare continued:
“Across Dorset there are so many brilliant charities supporting our communities, so when we unite with a shared purpose, we can reach more people, deliver services more effectively, and make better use of the resources entrusted to us by our supporters.
“Our partnership with Rising Voices shows how these partnerships within healthcare strengthen the long-term sustainability of our services and ultimately ensure more people receive the support they need.”
The Lewis-Manning Rising Voices Choir warmly welcomes people living with cancer and life-limiting illness, along with their families, carers, and anyone who has experienced bereavement—offering not just a place to sing, but a place to belong.
