Youth Music charity campaign launches ‘Rescue the Roots’ to save youth music projects.

Urgent action is needed

Youth Music has issued an urgent warning: without immediate action, thousands of young people across the UK could lose access to vital music projects within the next decade. To combat this crisis, the organization has launched the “Rescue the Roots” campaign, aiming to raise £1 million in donations. Youth Music will then match the donations, doubling the total to £2 million to support those programs most at risk.

“The crisis facing grassroots youth music projects is at breaking point. The lack of funding available is at critically low levels and the threat of closure for many is more imminent than ever.”

Matt Griffiths, Youth Music CEO

What’s causing this crisis?

The root of the issue lies in the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, compounded by severe funding cuts, particularly from local authorities. Many of these projects are run by small organizations, meaning that even minor funding cuts can lead to risks of closure. As a result, young people are losing crucial opportunities to engage with like-minded communities to make music and develop creative skills.

The numbers speak for themselves

Youth Music’s latest research paints a stark picture:

  • 41% of grassroots youth music projects are at risk of shutting down – a 17% increase from 2024.
  • 54% of Youth Music’s funded partners have a waiting list meaning not everyone can take part due to insufficient funding.
  • Youth Music can only fund 18% of applications received, leaving over 260,000 young people without access to music education and access to potential pathways into the music industry.

Why this matters

Championed by Rizzle Kicks’ Jordan Stephens, who credits grassroots youth music projects for his own success. He warns that without immediate intervention, the UK risks losing its next generation of artists and the new sounds that come with it.

“The UK music scene is in big trouble. Grassroots music projects are places for young people to build community, hone their passions and find purpose, and yet they are closing down at a worrying rate.”

Jordan Stephens, Rizzle Kicks and Youth Music Awards Grassroots Hero Award 2024 Winner

Beyond making music and providing potential career opportunities, these projects provide safe spaces where young people can express themselves and meet like-minded people. Without them, many aspiring musicians may never get the chance to develop their talents.

You can see the profound impact of these projects on young people’s lives through Youth Music’s “Rescue the Roots” documentary. With young people dependent on these programs, now is the time to take action and keep the roots of youth music alive.