Preserve. Create.
Heal. Support.

We protect and share the stories, sounds and objects that document British music and youth culture, with particular attention to the independent scenes that built it.

That includes records, equipment, artwork, photographs, film, flyers, documents, fashion and oral histories, as well as the stories of independent labels, record shops, clubs and radio.

Through research, digitisation, exhibitions and storytelling, collections become accessible to artists, young people, communities and researchers.

We connect people to education, mentoring and hands-on creative experience, drawing on an established network of musicians and industry professionals.

Subjects span music production, DJing, radio, podcasting, film, photography, sound, design, the music business, copyright, publishing, marketing, events and technology.

Placements, apprenticeships, volunteering and professional development can offer routes into work. Experienced creatives can also mentor and teach, putting their knowledge to use.

Music and creative activity can build confidence, expression and connection. We develop wellbeing work with appropriately qualified partners, including routes to information, referrals and support networks for people behind the music.

Creative activities complement professional mental health care; they do not replace it.

We aim to support artists and creative professionals facing hardship, disconnection or isolation through practical assistance, shared activities and access to networks.

Our approach also creates room for people of different ages and backgrounds to meet, participate and build lasting connections.