Rebuilding Hope and Humanity Through Song
At Matthew’s House, we believe that hope can begin in the simplest of moments — a meal shared, a word spoken, or even a song sung together.
This week, we were deeply moved as our choir leader Amanda met with staff at HMP Swansea to discuss a powerful next chapter — bringing Matt’s Community Choir into the prison. It’s a return to something close to her heart, as Amanda previously led a prison choir before the pandemic, where music became a bridge between isolation and connection.
During our meeting, Amanda shared a story that perfectly captures why we do what we do.
“I remember one session in the prison — about 20 or so men in the room. Some joined in, others stood quietly at the back, distant, detached.
When the session ended, one man — tall, tattooed, and silent throughout — walked over.
He looked at me and said, softly, ‘Can I help, miss?’
I handed him a small task, thanked him, and he went away. Then he came back, looked me straight in the eye, and said…
‘I’ve been in here three years. Today was the first time I felt human.’”
Those words have stayed with her — and with us. Because that’s what this work is really about.
At Matthew’s House, through every meal, conversation, dignity pack, shower, and song, our mission is simple: to help people feel human again.
We’re incredibly excited about this renewed partnership and the opportunity to bring music, connection, and community back into the walls of HMP Swansea.
This isn’t just a choir — it’s a chance to remind people of who they are, to restore dignity, and to help humanity find its voice again.
💛 Matt’s Community Choir — where every song carries hope.
🎶 Learn more about the choir here: www.matthewshouse.org.uk/experiences/matts-community-choir