Youth Music has launched the 'Rescue The Roots' fundraising campaign to combat the decline of grassroots music projects, aiming to raise £1 million, which will be matched by the charity.

New research by Youth Music warns that young people in the UK may lose access to grassroots music projects within the next decade due to funding cuts and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Jordan Stephens from Rizzle Kicks has publicly supported the campaign, emphasizing its importance in safeguarding the future of UK music and urging public support for grassroots initiatives.

The campaign aims to provide crucial support for over 18,000 young people in 2025, addressing the urgent financial needs of emerging artists and youth organizations.

Currently, 41% of grassroots youth music projects are at risk of closure, marking a 17% increase from the previous year, highlighting a growing crisis in the sector.

The urgency of the situation is underscored by the fact that approximately one grassroots music venue closed in the UK every two weeks last year, with 200 venues currently on alert for closure.

The Labour government has proposed measures to regulate ticket pricing and ensure a more stable future for the UK music scene, amid concerns about the lack of UK acts in global music charts.

Youth Music CEO Matt Griffiths stresses the critical state of grassroots music projects, stating that their closure would have severe implications for both the youth and the UK economy.

Funds raised through the 'Rescue The Roots' campaign will be allocated to youth organizations and young creatives in need of support.

To promote the campaign, a documentary featuring Jordan Stephens has been released, showcasing his commitment to the cause, including a tattoo symbolizing his dedication.

Despite the demand for music programs, 54% of Youth Music's funded partners report waiting lists for young people seeking access, but funding shortages mean only 20% of applicants can be supported, leaving over 260,000 youths without assistance.

In response to the crisis, calls for change have escalated, with the government backing a ticket levy at larger venues to support grassroots music, drawing parallels to funding models in sports.