The BRIT Awards taking place outside London highlights regional inequa | UK | News
The BRIT Awards taking place outside of London for the first time may well be a milestone for the north of England but young musicians in host city Manchester – and the wider north – still face significant barriers to accessing opportunities, a top charity has warned. As a charity supporting marginalised young people to make and monetise music, Youth Music distributes around £10 million annually, with 86% of its funding directed outside London. Of this, more than £1 million (£1,003,053) is invested each year in grassroots youth music projects and emerging talent across the North West, spanning 30 organisations and individuals.
The funding tackles persistent regional inequalities highlighted in Youth Music’s Sound of the Next Generation (SONG) report: Despite two in three young people in the North West saying they couldn’t live without music, only 53% believe all young people have equal access to music opportunities, compared to 61% in London. The findings point to ongoing structural barriers, including fewer local industry connections, less access to decision-makers, and limited opportunities to perform and progress.
The charity says that while major industry events such as the BRIT Awards can shine a light on regional creativity, Youth Music’s ongoing investment in grassroots youth music projects focuses on strengthening local infrastructure and supporting long-term talent development.
Carol Reid, Interim Co-CEO of Youth Music, said: “It’s hugely encouraging to see the BRITs move to Manchester, celebrating the region’s incredible music scene.
“Moments like this matter, but they also highlight that many young people still face barriers to accessing the industry. That’s why Youth Music invests directly in grassroots youth music projects and emerging talent across the North West, with 10% of our funding supporting marginalised young people locally.
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“We hope this moment helps drive continued investment to all corners of the UK, diversifying the talent pipeline and strengthening the already world-leading British music scene for the future.”
“As the spotlight turns north, the focus remains on ensuring talent from all regions can thrive long after the awards night ends.”
