TikTok star singer Nathan Evans paid a visit to Lanarkshire music project Reeltime to help launch this year’s BBC Children in Need appeal.
He met participants and project workers to find out about the range of creative opportunities on offer and about the impact of the £81,000 funding they receive from the annual TV appeal, which takes place this year on November 19.
The musician, who reached number one earlier this year with his viral sea shanty Wellerman, took part in a question-and-answer session and also joined in on drums as the young people demonstrated their skills and hit the high notes.
Reeltime offers musical activities and one-to-one support, and “aims to make a positive difference to the lives of young people from the local community who are facing disadvantages, by offering them the chance to learn new skills, encouraging creativity and increasing their aspirations”.
Airdrie resident Nathan heard how the project helps those attending its sessions overcome barriers to accessing music, including social anxieties or living in isolated areas; and spoke to participant Maisie, who told how the project has helped following her diagnosis with ADHD and her struggles with anxiety.
She described Reeltime as a “family” and explaining how it has built her confidence, saying: “It’s a lot easier to communicate through music; you don’t need to be good at talking. It means a lot to me – it’s a big part of my life and always something I look forward to.”
Based in Newarthill, Reeltime has worked with more than 20,000 young people during its two-decade history, with the Children in Need support contributing to its success.
It is one of nine projects in North Lanarkshire currently sharing £525,112 of funding from the long-running appeal; while a further five in South Lanarkshire receive grants totalling £294,141.
Nathan said: “It’s amazing to see first-hand where everybody’s donations go in the community and how they make a difference, and it’s been incredible to see all the young people coming together and everybody getting involved with the activities.
“This is exactly something I needed when I was younger, growing up in North Lanarkshire and wanting to be a musician, to meet like-minded people with the same passions.”
BBC Children in Need’s campaign this year is entitled Together, We Can, and a fundraising pack for supporters is now available to download online.
The 2021 campaign was launched with a UK-wide survey of 2000 children and parents, which revealed the impact of the Covid pandemic on youngsters’ lives and offers insight into issues such as poverty, disability and mental health.
Chief executive Simon Antrobus said: “Our research clearly shows that the lasting effects of the pandemic are continuing to impact the lives of children and young people across the UK.
“We want to ensure no child feels alone and that every child is supported to thrive and be the best they can be. Together, we really can change young lives and bring hope for the future.”
* Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
And did you know Lanarkshire Live is on Facebook? Head on over and give us a like and share!
