Radstock-based charity Evolve Music is calling on the community for support to ensure it can continue providing free music sessions for local young people - including those with additional needs.

Evolve Music is a local charity that delivers free community music sessions for neurodiverse young people from Somerset each week in Radstock and Yeovil through its Sound Lab project. This March, the charity is launching a matched-funding campaign to help continue these vital programmes and reach even more local young people and families.

It also runs the popular Dads Rock project, which provides music sessions for dads and male caregivers with their little ones on Saturday mornings in Radstock and Frome.

Following a competitive application process, Evolve Music has been selected to participate in the Big Give Arts for Impact programme for the second year running.

The charity aims to raise £2,500 between 12pm on Tuesday, March 18 and 12pm on uesday, March 25, which will be matched by Big Give donors and champions, bringing the total to £5,000.

READ MORE: Police probe after group of men threaten pub staff and customers

READ MORE: Dog which killed girl, 19, confirmed as XL Bully owned by cousin

These funds will enable Evolve Music to continue delivering free music sessions to local young people, including those with additional needs, and their families, making a significant difference in their lives.

Since its founding in 2017, Evolve Music has been committed to breaking down barriers to meaningful music participation. Many individuals, regardless of age, face challenges such as limited access to music education, high costs, and a lack of opportunities that align with their interests.

In the South West, these issues are further compounded by socio-economic disparities, rural isolation, and the ongoing impact of the high cost of living. Evolve Music addresses these challenges by providing free and

inclusive music sessions that inspire creativity, develop musicality, and foster a sense of community through the transformative power of music.

Beth Vleminckx, Co-Founder & Devon Hub Project Manager, said: "Last year, we were blown away by people’s generosity, and the funds from the campaign were able to go directly to our early years projects across the South West. We believe finances shouldn’t be a barrier to participation, so we provide all of our sessions for free, which is why your donations are so important for charities like ours. “

You can make a difference and enable this really important work to continue. So, if you can donate this year or share the campaign and spread the word so we can reach our target of £5,000, it really will make a huge difference."

Local people can support Evolve Music in several ways. Donations made between 12 pm on March 18 and 12 pm on March 25 will be doubled through matched funding, helping the charity continue its vital work.

Spreading the word is also essential, sharing the campaign with friends, family, and on social media can help reach a wider audience and maximise support.

For more information about the campaign, how to donate, or to learn more about Evolve Music’s community projects and the impact they have, call 07943 973473 or visit their website at www.evolvemusic.org.uk.