The Voice of Teesside

Children’s charity Barnados have been working alongside Youth Music and recently showcased a music project called The Voice of Teesside in Stockton in front of a very busy school audience. The charity has been working with pupils in the area to explore contemporary issues, develop communication skills and emotional literacy, and build musical knowledge. The project has been especially targeted to young people who may be facing challenges and who could benefit from building their self-esteem. The group revealed a song they had written called “Pause all the problems” which is about being your yourself and provided an insight into some of the experiences of young people in foster care. The song addresses challenge and adversity but is positive in its outlook and encourages listeners to Pause all the problems. Mayor of Stockton said: “It was a very humbling experience and I was thrilled with the lyrics of their song, Clearly it’s taken time and effort to get to that point and we need to listen to their voices. 

The overall project included five music groups to represent the five local authority areas in the Tees Valley, Including Stockton, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Redcar and Darlington ending with a sixth group comprised of identified pupils from each of the other five groups.

McKenzie aged 13, said: “Children our age don’t normally get heard, so we don’t feel like we’re hiding in the shadows anymore. “I think it’s been very beneficial, I’m happy because it shows that people in foster care have something to give because we’re brave smart and talented. 

Heidi, aged 12, said: “I’d like to thank my foster carers, If it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t be doing this, We can make a change and get our ideas across to make Teesside better.”