All In Music (AIM)

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Inclusive Music & Creativity for Young People with SEND and EHCPs

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Building confidence, skills, and wellbeing through music in a safe, supportive environment.

 

About the project 

AIM exclusively serves young people aged 11–25 with SEND and/or EHCPs. Access to the programme is provided through commissioned or funded placements, enabling us to deliver specialist, structured, and individually tailored support.

 

All In Music (AIM) is delivered by Southend YMCA. For over 20 years, we’ve helped thousands of young people express themselves, develop new skills, and thrive through creativity.

 

Our tutors combine professional music expertise with youth work and trauma-informed practice, ensuring sessions are safe, structured, and tailored to each young person’s needs.

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Why AIM Works 

We understand the importance of personalised, inclusive support. Our approach includes

• Sessions aligned with EHCP outcomes and personal development plans

• Calm, structured environments for sensory needs and anxiety

• Adaptable activities for different learning styles and pace

• Experienced staff trained in neurodiversity and safeguarding

 

We have extensive experience supporting:

Autism and Asperger’s • ADD and ADHD • SEMH • SLCN • Dyslexia • Dyspraxia • Sensory Processing • Learning Disabilities • Non-verbal communication needs • Blind and visually impaired young people • Physical and mobility impairments

 

We track progress using nationally recognised frameworks to evidence growth, engagement, and wellbeing.

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What We Offer 

Our programme combines music-making, digital creativity, and personal development.

• Music & Audio: 

  • Instrument skills (guitar, bass, drums, piano)

  • Vocal coaching & recording

  • Lyric writing & songwriting

  • Beat-making & music production

  • DJing & mixing

  • Soundtracks for film, TV & games

  • Podcasting & audio storytelling

  • Live performance practice

  • Collaboration with other musicians

• Media & Digital Creativity: 

  • Filmmaking & editing

  • Photography & visual storytelling

  • Graphic design & album artwork

  • Social media skills & branding

  • YouTube/TikTok content creation

• Creative Expression: 

  • Spoken word & poetry

  • Creative writing & zines

  • Mindful journaling & reflection

• Personal Development:

  • Confidence-building activities

  • Goal setting & life planning

  • CV writing & creative careers

  • Guest artist Q&As & industry insight

 

Next Wave Collective – Peer Mentoring Through Music 

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Launching 2026, Next Wave Collective is our youth-led mentoring project built on the success of All-In Music. It empowers young creatives to:

• Lead inclusive music sessions

• Mentor peers

• Curate public showcases

Our Music Mentors are young people who have thrived in AIM—developing creativity, confidence, and wellbeing. Now they step into paid leadership roles to help others build skills and belonging.​

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Why Peer Mentoring?​

Young people often connect more easily with mentors closer to their age, creating a safe space for openness, creativity, and growth.

Mentors receive training in:

• Trauma-informed practice

• Inclusive facilitation

• Safeguarding and youth work principles

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Next Wave Collective is open-access — any young person aged 11–25 can join. We especially welcome young women, LGBTQ+ young people, and those from diverse or underrepresented backgrounds.

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Each participant receives 10 weeks of 1-to-1 mentoring, culminating in a youth-led showcase at a local venue.​

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Benefits

Creative engagement offers more than enjoyment - it supports:

• Confidence and self-esteem

• Communication and teamwork

• Emotional regulation and stress reduction

• Social skills and positive peer interaction

• Attendance improvement and re-engagement in education

• Problem-solving and resilience

• Safe, supportive space for self-expression​

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Safeguarding & Standards 

Sessions are delivered by Southend YMCA tutors trained in:

• Youth work and trauma-informed practice

• Safeguarding and child protection

• First aid and neurodiversity awareness

​All staff hold Enhanced DBS checks and follow Southend YMCA’s safeguarding policies.

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How It Works 

 

Referral → Plan → Start → Track Progress → Review & Next Steps

 

Each step is simple and transparent, with regular updates for families and professionals.

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Funding 

We accept:

• EHCP funding

• Personal budgets

• Direct payments, and

• Self-funded placements.

 

Our team can guide you through the process.​

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Impact & Testimonials 

For over 20 years, All-In Music has transformed lives through creativity and inclusion.

Recent achievements (2024–25):

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• 1,245 young people engaged, including 126 core participants with diverse needs

• 3,357 sessions delivered across music, technology, and youth leadership

• 94% retention rate

• Supported 38 into employment

• Supported 45 into education/training, and

• Supported 46 into other opportunities

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Measured outcomes:

• Confidence & Wellbeing: Life satisfaction +1.9, confidence +0.89

• Musical Skills: Creativity +1.2, musical ability +0.92

• Agency & Belonging: Community connection +1.2, youth voice +1.1

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What People Say

“AIM feels like a safe, accepting space.” — Young Participant

“Our young people gained confidence trying something new.” — SEND Professional “My son has been offered a place at ACM to study guitar! AIM sparked his interest and nurtured it.” — Parent

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Contact us: allinmusic@southendymca.org.uk

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Southend YMCA

85 Ambleside Drive

Southend On Sea

Essex SS1 2FY  ​​​