Play Northwest CIC
PLAYNorthwestWellbeing and Connection Through Music

Our Impact

Real outcomes for real people — tracked, measured, and evidenced through every programme we deliver.

50+Participants supported across our programmes
94%Reported improvement in wellbeing

The sessions made me feel like I had a purpose and it has inspired me to join college studying music. Before the sessions I felt nervous and didn’t know what to expect, after the first week I couldn’t wait for the next session. I recommend this to anyone even if — like me — you have had no prior knowledge of making music.

— Programme participant

How We Measure Impact

Every programme we run includes structured wellbeing tracking. Participants complete wellbeing scales before and after each session, allowing us to measure real change over time. We use the NHS 5 Steps to Mental Wellbeing framework as our foundation, alongside qualitative feedback from participants, parents, and referral partners.

We believe in honest, evidence-based impact measurement — not just counting numbers, but understanding the real stories behind the data.

What We Track

Wellbeing

Self-reported wellbeing scores before and after each session. Tracking changes in mood, energy, and overall mental health across the programme.

Connection

Measuring social connection, sense of belonging, and relationship quality. Do participants feel more connected to their peers and community?

Confidence

Tracking self-confidence and self-esteem across the programme. From first session nerves to performing on stage at the final showcase.

Skills

New skills gained — DJ technique, music production, digital literacy, teamwork, and communication. Skills that last beyond the programme.

Engagement

Attendance rates, session enjoyment scores, and retention across the 12-week programme. Are participants choosing to come back?

Voice

Qualitative feedback in participants’ own words. What did they enjoy most? How did it make them feel? What would they change?

5 Steps to Mental Wellbeing Outcomes

Every session maps to at least one of the NHS 5 Steps to Mental Wellbeing.

Connect

Group music-making builds bonds and a genuine sense of belonging. Participants form friendships that last beyond the programme.

Keep Learning

Every session teaches something new — from beatmatching to sound design. Learning builds confidence and purpose.

Be Active

Field recording walks, movement through music, hands-on creative activity. Getting out of the house and into the community.

Take Notice

Sound healing and mindful listening help participants slow down, tune in, and become more aware of themselves and their surroundings.

Give

Creating music for others, mentoring peers, and performing at the community showcase. Giving back through creativity.

Early Intervention Through Music

We believe that reaching people early — before issues escalate — is the most effective way to support mental health. Traditional clinical services often have long waiting lists and can feel intimidating.

Our music-based approach offers an alternative pathway. Music is the hook that draws people in. Wellbeing is the outcome. By embedding mental health support within creative, engaging activities, we reach people who would never walk into a clinical setting.

This is preventive, not reactive. It’s about building resilience, connection, and confidence before crisis point — saving people from suffering and saving services from the cost of late intervention.

Partner With Us

We welcome partnerships with schools, NHS services, funders, and community organisations who want to make a real difference.

Get in Touch