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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Entertainment
Daisy Jackson

How Lewis Capaldi is doing his bit to help music lovers who struggle with anxiety at gigs - the initiative was launched in Manchester

Lewis Capaldi launched a new mental health initiative at his Manchester gig last night, the first on his sold-out UK tour.

The Scottish singer's LIVELIVE initiative offers support during - as well as before and after - his concerts for those suffering from anxiety disorders.

The initiative is in association with Music and You and Interlude Artists, and also offers a safe space and designated help points for anyone struggling emotionally.

Capaldi's new 'gig buddy' scheme allows gig-goers, especially those attending his shows on their own, to meet others at designated points.

Fans can connect at these points before doors open, during or after the show, and arrange to both watch the show and travel home safely together.

There's a LIVELIVE Zone within each venue, clearly signposted, with a help desk for anyone who feels that they need it.

The zone is manned by a qualified team on each of his UK tour dates, which includes dates at Glasgow, London and Cardiff.

Lewis posted about the scheme on his Instagram stories ahead of his show at the O2 Apollo last night.

Lewis Capaldi's LIVELIVE initiative launched in Manchester last night (Instagram - @lewiscapaldi)

The singer wrote: "First night of LIVELIVE tonight! Helping any of ya who struggle with any anxiety or mental health at gigs x"

Music and You, a mental health and wellness company, also posted some information yesterday.

Their post read: "If you or anyone you are with suffers from anxiety or mental health related issues, the LIVELIVE initiative in association with Lewis Capaldi and Music & You is here to help you."

Lewis - who had the crowd singing along to Atomic Kitten's Whole Again before hitting the stage - opened his eagerly-anticipated UK tour in Manchester last night.

Capaldi winning Song of the Year at the BRIT awards (Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)

He'll play a second date at the O2 Apollo this evening.

He'll also headline Parklife festival this summer, alongside Skepta and Tyler the Creator.

Fans have praised the initiative across social media.

One Instagram user wrote: "So happy about this! Had panic attacks at Lewis' shows in Frankfurt and Berlin last month and it just shows how important this is. Can't wait for Wembley next week, will need this for sure!"

Another posted: "This is so, so wonderful and MUCH needed. I adore gigs but can get massively overwhelmed. THANK YOU!!"

Over on Twitter, the initiative was described as 'the best thing ever' and 'absolutely brilliant'.

One user posted: "I can not stress how absolutely impressed and in love I am with #LiveLive Many people simply don't have to worry about it and thats fine. @LewisCapaldi good on you for creating this incredible project"

Any queries about the initiative can be directed to livelive@lewiscapaldi.co.uk.

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