Music group helps young people 'feel like they belong'

Young people taking part in a community music group say it "helps them feel like they belong".

Bristol Beacon's Hope Creative, a scheme set up to support children in the care system, is celebrating its 10-year anniversary after helping about 400 young people.

They are offered the chance to take part in song-writing sessions and performances, as well as paid placements and mentoring.

Lu Bristow, creative producer for the scheme, said: "This isn't solely a music project. It's about helping care-experienced young people recognise their own value."

One participant said: "It feels amazing to be heard and not be hidden. It makes me feel like we belong."

A Beacon spokesperson said: "Participants collaborate with professional musicians, with opportunities to perform at Bristol Beacon, and build a sense of community belonging."

One of the scheme's first participants, Benji Dorney, now works at the Beacon as a music centre assistant.

He said: "I always loved music as a kid, so to hear there was a music group for children in care was really exciting."

Mr Dorney joined Hope Creative aged 10 following his social worker's recommendation.

The group offered stability, something he said he was not used to living in the care system.

He said: "The people that work there stay there [a long time] and are invested in the project."

Ms Bristow said: "He brings real insight to our work and shows what's possible when support is sustained and rooted in creativity."

A 2025 evaluation showed 88% (352) of children in care who attended the group reported improved social skills, and every care leaver surveyed said they had developed new skills.

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