Beat Routes began in 2004 with freeform meet ups based around turntables and vinyl records, where young people exchanged creative ideas. An open mic session also evolved and became a popular fixture, inspired by the excitement of the rapidly evolving Grime scene. Both were embraced by local youth, resulting in a unique moment when creative expression seemed to explode and Beat Routes seized that moment, seeing the potential to nurture it and enable young people to flourish.

Beat Routes has developed into a successful charity, harnessing the energy of these early happenings into what is now an extensive, varied programme of activity for and co-led by young people. Sessions encompass music production, songwriting and sound engineering, as well as photography, graphic design, illustration, filmmaking, and much more.

Beat Routes works primarily with young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, experiencing a higher risk of poverty, chaotic lifestyles, family breakdown, poor school attendance, unemployment, drug abuse, violence, and crime.

Beat Routes ensures a safe, accessible, and stable environment for everyone. Background, identity, and circumstances of individuals are recognised but not judged and community and support are key to enabling everyone to realise their full creative potential.

Mental health problems are a growing public health concern, with anxiety and depression among the leading causes of illness and disability, affecting millions globally each year and causing significant social and economic impacts.

In a recent survey of young people joining the project, 85% reported anxiety disorders including depression, self-harm and suicidal ideation.These problems typically emerge during adolescence and early adulthood, reflecting a period of both vulnerability and opportunity for prevention and intervention.

Evidence indicates that arts involvement can significantly improve communication, social skills, and interpersonal relationships. By encouraging social participation and allowing individuals to give voice to their experiences, arts-based interventions can help those with anxiety and depression.

Impact Report (2021):
・100% said they had opened up and made friends within the structure
・70% of those who were not in education, employment or training had gained part or full-time employment and/or entered further education or training
・100% said that their resilience, professionalism and social skills had increased as a result of engaging in the arts
・98% had increased self-confidence
・100% had developed teamwork skills
・95% had developed at least one technical skill in the arts


“I’m at a place that I didn’t think I would be, I’m excited for the future…I want to turn something that was just a hobby into something more substantial with the ability to help people and change the community around me.”
Kate, BEAT Participant

Beat Routes provides a support structure for young people, tailored to individuals. Those who arrive may be daunted and lack confidence, having never been encouraged to share their thoughts or ideas before. Beat Routes aims to change that, creating a relaxed space where young people can find their creativity and express themselves fully.

Self-belief is critical: a realisation that they can do these things and that their contribution is worthwhile. Mentoring and personalised support addresses the needs of each participant, taking into account their background and specific barriers to their success.

Leaving Beat Routes, participants have a sense of positive self-acceptance and belief. They feel the benefit of emotional, social and intellectual development and an established ability to express their ideas, work in teams and bond with adults and peers; ability which can be transferred to all areas of life.

Beat Routes provides routes to success alternative to traditional academic pathways, building on the skills of creative exploration, communication and leadership the organisation nurtures.

Many participants progress to become apprentices or staff members within the organisation, go on to study the arts or gain employment across the creative industries, with a fresh self-confidence and resilience to the wider world.