Heavy Sound Alternative Learning and Development

Aim

Our project aims to secure ongoing funding so the most vulnerable groups can continue to access our services for free.

Heavy Sound provides relationship-based support for children, young people, adults and families across East Lothian.

The organisation grew from work begun in 2011 with care-experienced and neurodivergent boys who were disengaging from education and conventional services. Heavy Sound was incorporated in 2015 and now operates from bases in Haddington, Station Yard, and Cockenzie. Its experience includes alternative education, youth and adult mentoring, prison throughcare, family support, counselling, accredited learning and community programmes for people affected by alcohol and drug use, trauma, poverty, poor mental health, justice involvement and exclusion. 

People can enter through self-referral, a family enquiry, an existing relationship or a referral from education, social work, health, justice or another community service. Heavy Sound often reaches people through music, mountain biking, mechanics, hospitality, creative activity or practical learning. These are accessible ways to begin a relationship, not outcomes in themselves. Once trust develops, the work can address safety, wellbeing, relationships, education, housing, money, caring responsibilities and future opportunities. For people aged 16 and over, flexible pathways provide tasters, qualifications and progression without requiring entry through a fixed cohort or imposing an arbitrary exit date. 

Heavy Sound provides mentoring, advocacy, practical help, education support, counselling, throughcare and coordinated access to specialist services. It works with schools, social work, health, alcohol and drug services, recovery organisations, housing, welfare, employability providers and community partners.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made