Sybil
“I was feeling down & depressed and I went to Key Changes… I really liked it!”
Using the power of music to support creativity, connection and recovery.
We provide songwriting, production and recording sessions, artist development, volunteering and work experience opportunities, that promote positive mental health and wellbeing.
Using a music industry-focused, trauma-informed approach, we help young people and adults with mental health lived experience to rebuild confidence and agency, and develop new skills and life opportunities. Our programmes are delivered by specially trained professional producers, artists, managers, industry experts, and peer assistants, creating safe, supportive, and inspiring spaces to grow.
Everyone is welcome to access our programmes, regardless of skill level or experience.
Our Impact
- 75–100% of participants report improved wellbeing through music mentoring
- Average wellbeing scores increase by 11+ points (SWEMWBS)
A substantial and meaningful improvement in mental wellbeing - 75% of participants show measurable mental health improvement
Source: Key Changes programme data, SWEMWBS participant data, 2025
Beneficiaries
Community sessions
Hospital sessions
Hours of service user volunteering
*services provided in 2024-25
Delivering measurable mental health improvements for people facing significant barriers and disadvantage.
We support individuals facing multiple and overlapping challenges:
- 95% are unemployed or on low income
- 54% have experienced homelessness or unstable housing
- 72% are from global majority backgrounds
- 60% are under 30
Supporting Mental Health Recovery
Hospitals
Pop-up recording studio sessions in inpatient wards (acute, intensive care, rehabilitation, and other psychiatric wards).
Community
Tailored mentoring in professional studios focused on skills development, wellbeing, and personal aspirations.
Performance
Open-mic nights, concerts, and video projects to build confidence and challenge stigma.
Progression
Volunteering, work experience, and peer mentoring pathways to support growth beyond the programme.
Key Changes Music and Mental Health Podcast
What Artists Say About Key Changes
Yella
“It’s helped me to become a songwriter & performer – and given me structure in my week”
D-Shine
“Since I met Key Changes I’ve had a speedy recovery for my mindset”
Bonnie Hel
“Having something to focus on, instead of thinking about doctors and appointments – like I can escape for a bit”
Stickz
“Been in and out of hospital from age 15 – haven’t been back since I started coming here”
Ruth
“Brings people together & pushes them that little bit further”
Terror Telboy
“I was in a dark place, Key Changes lifted me up and help me fulfil my dreams”
Sophie
“Helped me overcome my anxieties & achieve my dream of becoming a recording artist”
V3SPA
“Opened the door during my darkest days – helped me rediscover my musical soul”
V3SPA
“Opened the door during my darkest days – helped me rediscover my musical soul”
Sophie
“Helped me overcome my anxieties & achieve my dream of becoming a recording artist”
Terror Telboy
“I was in a dark place, Key Changes lifted me up and help me fulfil my dreams”
Ruth
“Brings people together & pushes them that little bit further”
Stickz
“Been in and out of hospital from age 15 – haven’t been back since I started coming here”
Bonnie Hel
“Having something to focus on, instead of thinking about doctors and appointments – like I can escape for a bit”
D-Shine
“Since I met Key Changes I’ve had a speedy recovery for my mindset”
Yella
“It’s helped me to become a songwriter & performer – and given me structure in my week”
Sybil
“I was feeling down & depressed and I went to Key Changes… I really liked it!”
Music can play a valuable role in mental health recovery
- – Stimulates emotional and aesthetic response
– Supports behaviour change and improved wellbeing
– Helps develop creative, technical, and vocational skills
– Enhances expression, communication, confidence & self-esteem
