A Gloucester-based charity which helps young people living in challenging circumstances to reach their full potential, has today (29th April) received the Queen's Award for Enterprise for promoting opportunity through social mobility.

The Music Works, founded in 2004, supports over 2,500 children and young people every year; engaging them through music, building confidence, self-belief and motivation, and empowering them to improve their life chances.

Deborah Potts, CEO at The Music Works, said: "Most of the young people we work with come from challenging circumstances, from living with domestic abuse to being a young offender to having mental health challenges, and the heights they can reach through our programmes, are incredible. We are thrilled to be recognised by the Queen's Award scheme and very excited about what the future holds for these talented young people."

In June this year, the charity will also be launching Gloucestershire's first and only fully inclusive community music hub for young people. Located in King's House in Gloucester, The Hub will have its own events space, two recording studios, two production suites, practice spaces and a sensory music room, all equipped with top-of-the-range music technology. It is designed to empower young people in challenging circumstances to engage with music in a unique and powerful way.

Deborah continued: "We know that music is really important to young people in Gloucestershire and 70 per cent who weren't in formal education, employment or training when they joined our programmes are now back at school or working, which is fantastic.

"It will be a dream come true for young people to have their own safe space, where they can grow their interest and experience with music. The Hub will also give more people across the county the opportunity to collaborate and develop their talents and ultimately have the best possible chance of entering the creative industries."

Photo credit: The Music Works