Youth Music have warned that young people across the UK could lose access to grassroots music projects within the next decade, prompting the launch of a new campaign to prevent their closure.
The charity, which supports young people making music in marginalised communities, reports that 41 per cent of grassroots youth music projects are currently at risk of closure – a 17 per cent increase from the previous year.
Their research also reveals that 54 per cent of the charity’s partners have waiting lists of young people seeking access to music projects, with current funding only allowing support for one in five applicants. This leaves more than 260,000 young people without access to musical opportunities.
In response, Youth Music have launched their Rescue The Roots campaign, which will match every pound donated up to £1million. These funds will be distributed to youth organisations and young creatives requiring financial support.
The campaign launch includes a documentary featuring Rizzle Kicks’ Jordan Stephens, who received a tattoo to raise awareness for the cause.
“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. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of organisations like Youth Music and the grassroots music projects they fund,” says Stephens.
“That’s why I’m proud to support the Rescue the Roots campaign, and why I’m making my support permanent with this new tattoo. Rescue the Roots isn’t just a phrase, it’s a call to arms and a plea for fundraising support – it is the most important thing we can do to safeguard the next generation of musical talent. If we don’t, there will be no new artists, no fresh sounds, no future for UK music. Please help us Rescue the Roots before it’s too late.”
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