Raw Material is delighted to announce that it has made the shortlist for this year’s Charity Awards (the sector's most highly-regarded award scheme) in the Education for the Arts, Culture & Heritage category.

The Charity Awards, which announced its shortlist last week (3rd May), is the sector’s most highly-regarded excellence recognition scheme. All 30 shortlisted charities this year have been judged by an independent panel of sector leaders as having demonstrated best practice in leadership and management, from which other organisations can learn.

We have been recognised for our “Raw Sounds” programme, in which Raw Material opens its doors to those living with mental health conditions to deliver a range of programmes that use social and creative activities to inspire positive change in individual mental well-being. The programme has operated since 2012 through a partnership with the NHS South London and Maudsley Trust and has expanded over time to include a wide selection of music-making courses, from Digital Audio Production, to ‘Mindful Music’ Improvisation, from Guitar Sessions to Spoken Word Rap Performance. These courses enable participants to develop themselves as musicians; but more importantly, they facilitate the meaningful and therapeutic experience of self-expression through word and sound, and of connection with others through musical exchange.

Judge Cathy Phelan-Watkins said of Raw Material, “They are incredibly focused on the need they see in their community, and they plug the terrible gap in mental health provision in the NHS. They can step in while you’re waiting to receive your mental health intervention or they can step in after you’ve received that intervention, both of which can be very difficult periods for individuals.”

Judge Karin Woodley added: “They stand out in the charity sector for their level of diversity within their structure – they have a very diverse board of trustees and very diverse group of staff. Their service users see themselves reflected throughout the organisation. They are really loved locally.”

Rachel Nelken, CEO of Raw Material, said: “The nomination comes at a very important time for us, as we prepare to upscale our premises and further develop our programme and offer for the community. We are very grateful to Civil Society, and honoured to be included alongside so many outstanding charities.”

The Awards Presentation takes place next month on the 7th June. You can find out more about our work and hear news of the outcome of the Awards by following the link below.

https://charityawards.co.uk/raw-material-music-and-media-education/