As an arts charity we believe that the arts change lives. 

For many families in the area, there just isn’t the money to spend on books and music, on events, on being inspired. We believe that the arts should be for all; it can spark the imagination, create confidence and alleviate barriers creating brighter, happier futures. As part of our work as an arts charity we run our HIF+ outreach programmes which take free arts events to those who need it most. All funds raised through our challenge will go towards our Future50 Appeal, ensuring the future of our work.

We change lives through the arts, here’s just one of our projects you will be helping support.

The UK has the highest teen pregnancy rates in Western Europe, yet these young mums who unexpectedly put their life on hold to raise a child are often left without a support network. For many this drastic change in their life ends their hopes and dreams. Due to age often their education is stifled, finances are a struggle, many are isolated from their peers and friends and worst of all many perceive themselves judged by other mothers, the people who could make them feel accepted.

Through Musical Mums, our free music class for young mums and their babies we work to create a safe space, a platform where they can share their thoughts and fears. We support and provide these mums with a peer network and access to wider professional services. Not only that but through music we build confidence and security creating a time where they don’t need to worry and without distraction, where time with their child takes centre stage.

Children of teen mums are shown to be lower achieving when entering school but with Musical Mums, the development, imagination and skills created, these children are achieving at nationally expected levels creating a bright future. 

Musical Mums is a social lifeline for young mums in the district and is just one element of our work. Please support us to continue changing lives through the arts.