Heavy Sound
Work with Heavy Sound
About Heavy Sound
Founded in 2011 as a music-led outreach project, Heavy Sound has grown into a flexible and inclusive model of support for young people across East Lothian.
It delivers a community-based alternative to mainstream education, working with young people aged 11-15 who are disengaged from school and supporting their families. The approach is strengths-based, creating opportunities through creative and practical activities that help build confidence, skills and engagement.
For those aged 16-21, Heavy Sound offers clear progression into further learning, training and employment.
It also provides opportunities to take part in its Youth Advisory Board and delivers tailored support for those who are in contact with the justice system.
Values
Heavy Sound’s values are central to its approach, shaping how it engages with and supports young people.
Compassion
- Meet people where they are, building trust through empathy and working alongside them to support meaningful and lasting change.
Inclusive
- Listen, adapt and work in partnership with young people, ensuring their voices shape their journeys and the work delivered.
Nurturing
- Provide consistent and reliable support that creates safety while building confidence, stability and positive relationships.
Bold
- Challenge barriers and take creative, collaborative approaches to open up opportunities and deliver lasting impact.
Future Direction
Heavy Sound continues to demonstrate significant cost savings alongside reduced offending and improved engagement in education and progression.
It also supports fewer young people entering residential care, contributes to lower re-offending rates and strengthens local provision through partnerships and timely access to therapeutic support.
