A new independent evaluation from WSA highlights the powerful impact of Live Music Now’s Lullaby Intervention in Essex, delivered in partnership with Parents 1st UK and B3 (Bumps, Birth and Belonging).
Running from September 2024 to March 2026, the programme supported parents across Basildon and Tendring through a unique blend of music-making, peer support and culturally responsive care. Across eight cohorts, families created 57 original lullabies, using music as a tool to strengthen relationships, improve wellbeing and build confidence in early parenthood.
Stronger Parent–Baby Bonds
The evaluation report found that the project significantly strengthened emotional bonds between parents and their babies. Creating a personal lullaby helped parents develop a deeper sense of connection and appreciation, particularly for those who had experienced challenges in the early stages of parenting.
“It has been a lovely bonding experience for me and my baby.”
Even where bonds were already strong, the evaluation found that the programme helped deepen these relationships further, while also strengthening connections across the wider family.
Improved Mental Health and Wellbeing
The independent evaluation found clear improvements in parents’ mental health and wellbeing. Overall, 85% of mothers showed positive change across key wellbeing indicators, with the greatest gains in emotional wellbeing, physical health and social connections.
The evaluation highlights how the combination of creative expression, routine and peer support created a safe, non-judgemental space. Parents reported reduced stress, improved mood and a stronger sense of resilience.
Community Building, Reduced Isolation and Stronger Support Networks
Reducing isolation was a key outcome identified in the independent evaluation. Many parents began the programme with limited social contact but went on to build friendships and ongoing peer support networks.
“I’ve actually made a friend!”
The evaluation also found that the project successfully reached families experiencing high levels of disadvantage—particularly in Tendring, where over 40% of participants were living in the most deprived areas in England.
These new connections often continued beyond the sessions, with parents organising their own meet-ups and engaging with other local groups.
Increased Resilience and Confidence in Parenting
The independent evaluation found that parents developed greater confidence in their parenting, including caring for their baby, making decisions and trusting their instincts.
For some, this included practical improvements such as breastfeeding confidence; for others, it was about building a stronger sense of identity, capability and achievement during early parenthood.
Better Preparation and Access to Support
For expectant parents, the independent evaluation found that the programme improved confidence and preparedness for labour and birth, contributing to more positive experiences.
The evaluation also found that parents became more aware of local services and felt more confident engaging with professionals and advocating for themselves.
Celebrating Culture and Identity
The independent evaluation identified the programme’s culturally responsive approach as a key strength. Parents were supported to reflect their heritage, language and identity in their lullabies, creating meaningful and personal outputs.
This helped ensure that parents from diverse backgrounds felt seen, understood and included.
A Holistic Approach That Works
Overall, the independent evaluation found that the project’s success lies in its integrated, relationship-based model. Music provided a powerful way to build trust and encourage self-expression, while peer support ensured parents received ongoing emotional and practical support.
For many families, the impact extends far beyond the sessions—leaving a lasting legacy through music, relationships and shared experience.
Read the full report here: LINK to download the full report
Listen to the Lullabies here:
