Being Seen, Being Heard, Feeling Connected

Being Seen, Being Heard, Feeling Connected brings together decades of national and cross-sector learning on the power of singing and vocal work for children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing.

Published by the Sing Up Foundation in May 2026, the report draws on over 50 sources including research, practitioner insights, case studies and young people’s lived experiences. It makes the case for singing not just as a creative activity, but as a tool for connection, expression and recovery — and as a targeted intervention for young people’s mental health.

Key themes include how group singing builds belonging, how songwriting supports emotional expression, and how singing can complement clinical services by reaching those who may not access traditional support. The publication is clear that singing is not a quick fix — its impact depends on skilled practitioners, safe environments, and sustained engagement over time.

Whether you’re a teacher, music practitioner, music organisation leader, or anyone working with children and young people, this publication offers evidence and insight to inform and strengthen your work.

Visit the Sing Up Foundation website to read the publication as an interactive flipbook or sign up to download the PDF. You can also watch back the launch webinar featuring Professor Graham Welch (UCL Institute of Education), Benjamin Turner (Rap Club), and Baz Chapman (Sing Up Foundation), facilitated by Katherine Zeserson (Chair, Sing Up). More webinars are planned over the coming months — subscribe to stay connected as the work develops.