Through involvement in the project, children have the opportunity to have free loan of their own instrument for regular music lessons. The project also offers opportunities to complete music exams, join ensembles and performances and experience things that they would otherwise miss out on. Additionally, Music Cares provides a rare opportunity for children in care to engage positively with other people, particularly adults not involved in their care provision, an essential skill for when they leave the care system.

Music making helps vulnerable children knock down barriers that they either face or put up themselves. It builds their confidence and communication skills, empowering them to transform their lives for the better. Perhaps more importantly, for many it develops a sense of pride, value and belonging to something that they’ve been missing.