A charity which runs a music and social change programme to tackle child poverty welcomed the news that it is to receive a three-per cent spending increase as part of the Scottish Government’s draft budget announced today (Wednesday).
Sistema Scotland delivers support to more than 4,000 children and young people through its Big Noise programme.
The Scottish Government’s proposed spending plans include £2.678 million for the charity, which will fund the six Big Noise centres – located in Raploch and Fallin in Stirling, as well as Douglas in Dundee, Govanhill in Glasgow, Torry in Aberdeen and Wester Hailes in Edinburgh.
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Big Noise supports young people to reach their full potential by helping them develop vital life skills such as confidence, resilience, creativity, and aspiration, while also strengthening community ties through music and nurturing relationships.
A 2022 study found that Big Noise participants are more likely to secure employment upon leaving school and are less likely to be unemployed.
Big Noise has been running for 16 years since forming in Raploch in 2008 with just six musicians supporting 35 children.
Benny Higgins, chair of Sistema Scotland, said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Scottish Government for its steadfast support of Big Noise and this very welcome spending uplift in the draft budget.
“The charity’s work over the past 16 years has transformed lives throughout Scotland and this announcement ensures the critical work to tackle child poverty can continue, enabling young people and families to realise their potential.”