Music Program Boosts Confidence and Friendships for Young People in County Durham
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A BBC Children In Need-funded initiative is providing a vital creative outlet for children in Stillington, County Durham, fostering confidence and social skills through music and songwriting. The program, spearheaded by local musicians, addresses a critical gap in extracurricular activities for youngsters aged seven to 13 in the region.
Addressing a Need for Youth Enrichment
Recognizing a lack of opportunities for children in the area, a local advocate successfully bid for funding to establish youth music sessions. “It’s a big world to approach, but they need that confidence to get through,” the advocate explained, highlighting the importance of equipping young people with the tools to navigate life’s challenges. The initiative aims to provide a “good start” for children, enriching their lives through the power of music.
Therapeutic Benefits and Creative Expression
The weekly sessions, held at Stillington Village Hall, are led by country music singer and songwriter Hayley McKay alongside singer Dave Neil Crabtree. Participants are not only learning musical skills but also experiencing the therapeutic benefits of creative expression. McKay emphasized the importance of getting children “out the house and getting off their iPads, just being able to be a kid,” recognizing the value of unplugged, real-world experiences.
“You’re not young for a long time in life,” McKay added, underscoring the need to cherish and nurture childhood. Participants themselves echo these sentiments. “It’s just really fun,” said one young attendee, adding, “It’s built my confidence and I’ve made so many friends through it.” Another participant, a 10-year-old named Freya, noted the program has helped her improve her social skills. Tilly, another group member, shared that the sessions are beneficial for vocal development, stating, “it helps your singing and you get your voice really good, your breathing gets really good.”
A Vision for Community and Joy
The driving force behind the initiative envisions a welcoming space where any child can participate. The advocate’s “vision” is to create an environment where children leave each session “happy and excited and probably can’t sleep,” fueled by the joy of music and newfound confidence. The group is currently working towards staging performances throughout the year, providing a platform for the young musicians to showcase their talents.
The annual Children In Need telethon, which supports initiatives like this one, will air live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 19:00.
