We were honoured to welcome Alison Lowe OBE, Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime in West Yorkshire, to our Safe Space Studio last month, alongside her colleagues Paige and Joshua.

This visit marked Alison’s first time experiencing our Safe Space Studio in action—a creative and supportive environment designed to empower young people through music and sound production. Alison spent time with some of the young participants currently engaged in the programme, hearing first-hand about their experiences, aspirations, and the positive impact the studio has on their lives.

Our Safe Space Studio forms a key part of YY&M’s work with young people at risk of criminal exploitation, offering them a safe, inspiring place to explore creativity, build confidence, and develop practical skills. We are proud that this vital programme is supported by the Mayor’s Safer Communities Programme, which aims to reduce violence, build resilience, and create safer, stronger communities across West Yorkshire.

Alison’s visit gave us the opportunity to showcase how music can provide a powerful alternative pathway for young people, helping them to navigate challenges and envision brighter futures. It was also a chance to highlight the collaborative efforts between YY&M and the Mayor’s Office in tackling some of the complex issues facing young people today.

We’re grateful to Alison, Paige, and Joshua for their time, enthusiasm, and support—and to all the young people whose energy and talent continue to inspire the work we do.