37% of Youth Music-funded projects consider closure as waiting lists hit 33,500

Youth Music's 2026 survey found 37% of its funded projects are considering closure and nearly 33,500 young people are on waiting lists. In 2025 the charity raised £1 million for its Rescue the Roots campaign and matched the sum, directing £2 million to youth music organisations. The 2026 Youth Music Awards take place in Liverpool on 28 October.