Volunteers help maintain the gardens at Trinity

Putting Down Roots is a horticultural therapy and training project, using gardening as a tool to help people in their recovery. Delivered by St Mungo’s, the project helps to build people’s self-esteem, confidence and sociability through connecting with nature.

“It is a pleasure to work in such a beautiful space and to be part of something so positive that so well serves the local community.” Putting Down Roots Participant

The group meet weekly and help maintain the gardens in Trinity’s historic grounds and work in teams to plant blubs, prune trees, weed and even to take part in crafts activities such as mud sculpture.

On average about ten people attend the weekly sessions at Trinity. The team delivering Putting Down Roots say that taking part can be an up and down journey, but it is proven to help people take positive next steps in their recovery.

One client, Miriam*, took part in Putting Down Roots for about a year and a half. She particularly enjoyed being in the garden and the St Mungo's team saw her benefit therapeutically through being able to get involved, for example, in pruning the trees or weeding an area enough to unwind and feel much better after a few hours than she did when she arrived. Miriam recently moved on to start a new role as a Forest School Assistant.

Clients who take part in Putting Down Roots are referred to the project through their key worker - they may live at the St Mungo's hostel or are recommended by a someone who has previously taken part.

If you would like to find out more about the project please visit the St Mungo's website.

*name changed to protect privacy

Gh0$t took part in a vocal looping workshop with performer and musician Keisha Thompson. Photo KoLAB Studios / Khali Ackford

Making Tracks is a life-changing music making project, delivered by Trinity and partners ACE and Basement Studios. The project supports young people to take their next steps in education or work through accessing music provision.

Gh0$t, aka Jack, joined Making Tracks when he was 23 - finding out about the programme through a suggestion by Access Creative College. The college have worked with Trinity for a number of years, often referring students who may benefit from an alternative education setting.

“Jack’s journey has had its challenges, but his passion for music and the support Trinity provided throughout this time has helped to keep him focussed and motivated. Jack has showed a consistent level of dedication and has seen the confidence in his own abilities and talent develop exponentially.” Dave Thomas, Youth Activities Manager

All young people who take part in Making Tracks have individual learning plan. This is created through conversations with students, highlighting what they may want to achieve and input from tutors, identifying key areas of development.

Jack showed an interest in developing his skills in writing original lyrics, rap and learning more about recording his own songs. He developed his music skills in regular 1-2-1 sessions and attended workshops and opportunities offered throughout the programme. This included workshops with touring artists Keisha Thompson, Making Tracks Summer Music Sessions, Q&A sessions with industry professionals and music events. Gh0$t also was active in promoting his own music made during his sessions on social media.

The final part of Jacks development was the opportunity to work as a youth mentor on an Anti-Knife Crime project. Organised by Avon and Somerset Police and delivered in partnership with local schools, Jack supported students to create a soundtrack for an animation. Jack was completely dedicated to the process taking part not only as lyric writer and performing artist but also as a consultant, offering musical advice to the students in the project.

“My main motivation … stems from my past. It actually drove me to write and work on this project because I felt I could relate to what these young people go through on a daily basis, but I also wanted to portray the message that you can still make a difference and become something that no one believed you could be.” Gh0$t

Since completing the programme, Jack is working on building his youth work CV and accessing further courses and youth work qualifications - proving his commitment to continue his professional journey.

Making Tracks is supported by Youth Music and using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, as well as support from match funders Youth Sector Support Fund.

Photo @ Khali Ackford / KoLAB Studios

Max is a young man who has been coming to Trinity off and on for the past year. He started playing the drums at the age of 12 but in recent years had no access to a drum-kit so stopped playing.

Making Tracks has provided Max with weekly lessons, teaching him the rudiments of drumming for the first time and creating opportunities for him to realise songs he had written in his head for years.

“I've never really had the facilities and encouragement to do this before, but I'm making these steps, and although they're not speedy they’re at a pace that I’m comfortable with and I'm really enjoying the journey.” Max

During the course of the year Max has found it easier to retain musical information, and both his confidence and musical ability have improved significantly.

He shows great insight into the value of projects like Making Tracks and the benefits they offer to young people like him who may suffer from anxiety or self-doubt and therefore not push themselves forward: “I think it's important that that's what these places do, they try to encourage people who aren't fully out of their shells or fully know what they want to do, to explore things and just have fun with it, because it shouldn't be a stressful thing, not knowing what you want to do.”

Photo @ KoLAB Studios

“I just learned to channel my anger, emotions, my energy in a good way, so I could create something I could be proud of... I'm just going to keep following that path of love, loving what I do and loving how I do it and just see where it gets me, coz that’s all I can do.” Miss Tee

Tenisha is a young single parent whose situation has turned around over the last two years with support from Trinity.

From being someone with very little confidence who described herself as ‘a negative person’ Tenisha has used her involvement with Making Tracks to develop a positive approach to life, both personally and professionally.

Her lyric writing, singing, microphone use and music production skills have improved significantly. She has become increasingly independent and her confidence has blossomed, evidenced in her three live performances in front of large crowds this year.

“They (Trinity) showed me I could do more with my music, that I am my music, and to embrace my music. They made me understand that context, and the confidence helped me build it too... It’s a big step for me, and it’s scary too, but they've helped me every step of the way and I'm so grateful... It’s made me more independent and that is making me overcome a lot of other fears. The whole coming out of my shell, being who I really want to be, and doing what I love...”

Tenisha has developed a strong musical relationship with Trinity staff who have challenged and supported her in a way that has encouraged her growth, personally and musically, her self-discipline and self-belief.

Having now joined PRS as an artist in her own right Tenisha’s next steps include producing an EP of original music and releasing it across multiple platforms. She’s also keen to mentor other young people, pushing them forward in a way she feels she was never pushed until now.

“Overall we're incredibly pleased with her. I'm really happy for her because it's going to keep going, it’s not the top of the hill yet, so she will stay involved.” Al Howard,Trinity staff member

Photo @ KoLAB Studios

Joan is a young women who has been home schooled. She struggles being around groups of young people but really enjoys the opportunity to play one to one with a music teacher. Joan now plays the bass and until her introduction to Making Tracks mainly played alone.

“Trinity as a whole seems to be a safe space for Joan. She seems quite nervous when I've seen her mix with people outside, but when she is mixing with people inside Trinity she's really open. So I think it's important for her to have a space like that... it really seems to be benefiting her.” Bridget, Trinity music tutor

Having taken part in group sessions at both Basement Studios and ACE where she struggled in integrate with other young participants she was offered one to one bass lessons at Trinity.

“Even though I have a bass at home I like playing music with people, so it's given me an opportunity to play music with people, which then gives me more inspiration to play at home. I’ve definitely been taught a lot that I wouldn't have learned if I just played on my own. I've got a lot more confident with playing music and I feel like I understand my instrument more than I did before.”

Her experience at Trinity has marked a significant improvement in Joan’s musical ability, her confidence and her motivation.

When she started lessons she described herself as playing “only one song on one string of the bass” whereas now she has mastered “a whole playlist of songs”. She has developed a good relationship with her music tutor, who she feels understands her and responds well to her individual needs.

Making Tracks is supported by Youth Music and using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, as well as support from match funders.

Mothers, fathers and children learnt to sing lullabies from around the world at the Easton Community Centre workshop in October 2019.

'Lullabies' sharing at Trinity

Roxana is a British-Iranian artist with a background in physical theatre, film and music. In 2018 Roxana Vilk moved to Bristol from Scotland and started teaching English to refugee women at the Malcolm X Centre. After attending a drop-in for international parents at her son's school, she was inspired to use lullabies to bring communities together. Soon after this, Roxana applied to become an IGNiTE resident

“When I walked into Trinity I thought ‘Ok, this is home" Roxana Vilk

Our community-led approach is what made her chose IGNiTE over other residencies that were available in the area. Joining us gave her a sense of grounding that helped her kick-start her artistic work in Bristol. During her four months with us, she grew her idea from “seed” stage to full blown project.

Roxana developed “Lullabies” together with local communities by collecting, recording and sharing songs from the many cultures in Bristol. Here she was filmed by the BBC during a workshop at Easton Community Centre, delivered in partnership with Up Our Street.

The Trinity team members supported Roxana with project planning, producing and time management guidance. This supported her growth as an artist. Roxana also feels like Trinity’s networks and connections benefited her project. The IGNiTE residency also allowed Roxana to develop new skills and take artistic risks, allowing her to "get out of her comfort zone".

“There’s a deep respect for Trinity amongst artists, and an awareness that there is integrity in any work that is supported by the venue.”

With Trinity's support Roxana is continuing to develop “Lullabies” gathering songs with Bristol-based communities and running workshops culminating a “Lullabies” showcase at Trinity in 2020.

Finally, Roxana feels like IGNiTE really benefit marginalised communities in Bristol. Several people at the Trinity sharing said they had never attended a show or been involved in one before because opportunities are usually not communicated to them. Roxana believes the local engagement work Trinity does, makes it the most distinctive community arts provider in the area.

“If the Arts Council is all about prioritising access to the arts, supporting Trinity and more specifically the IGNiTE programme is a no brainer.”

About IGNiTE

IGNiTE is Trinity's in house programme of world-class, innovative theatre and dance about issues that matter to people now, starting conversations and sparking debate. IGNiTE is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England and by Bristol City Council.

Photo credits @ Alexa Ledecky www.alexaledecky.com

Jack took part in Making Tracks Summer Music Session Aug 2018 (photo @ Alastair Brookes)

I was 16 when I dropped out of college. I didn't do well at my GCSCE's and ended up on a course I didn't want to be on. I lacked focus and was depressed within that environment. I grew up on a poor estate and the idea of never achieving anything in life was kind of drummed into me.

I was NEET for about a month until I was picked by an agency (LPW) who advised me to start looking at mini courses and apprenticeships. It was through these opportunities that I was eventually referred across to Trinity to take part in the Making Tracks Project.

I really enjoy making music and after some time on the Making Tracks course I ended up taking part in a work experience placement going in every Wednesday for a couple of hours and sitting in on various 121 sessions and even in some cases leading sessions with other students (with Trinity's support).

During these sessions I helped other young people to record vocal tracks, produce original beats and assist live rehearsal sessions. I have also attended professional training as part of the team and gained a safeguarding certificate.

Making Tracks is a collaborative project between Trinity, Basement Studios & Aspiration Creation Elevation (ACE@Docklands) and is supported by Youth Music and using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. Click here to find out more about our projects, helping ensure that everyone in Bristol has the opportunity to access and shape arts and culture.

You help secure Trinity's past, now play your part in Trinity's future

Josh has been attending 121 sessions at Trinity as well as workshops and other events delivered as part of Making Tracks (photo Alastair Brookes - KoLAB Studios).

"I had heard Trinity provided people who have had difficult pasts with good opportunities to develop skills with performing and recording music"

Hi, I am Josh I'm 21 and I come to Trinity weekly to attend 121 music sessions that are part of the Making Tracks Project .

As well as the recording sessions I attend I also have been learning skills in songwriting workshops and other music related events at Trinity.

I came to trinity because music is something that I’ve always been passionate about and I had heard Trinity provided people who have had difficult pasts with good opportunities to develop skills with performing and recording music, I mainly work with Al in the studio and greatly enjoy it.

I’ve struggled with mental health problems all my life and being able to record at Trinity has been a massive help with keeping myself positive and active. Taking part in Trinity has benefited me in more ways than I ever would have imagined, it’s enabled me to be able to write and record my own songs and has helped me develop my skills and confidence as a musician. When I first started attending trinity I was very shy and struggled with depression a lot and the friendly atmosphere provided at trinity has really brought me out of my shell and helped me become the strong confident person I am today.

Without trinity I would never have gotten the chance to make my own music or improve my skills as a musician.

If I had to describe my experience at trinity in three words I’d use “truly amazing experiences".

You helped secure Trinity's past, now play your part in Trinity's future

My name is Imoleayo and I live in Bristol. Before I started the Youth Music sessions at Trinity I wasn't doing very much, I was doing okay at school and doing some music sessions in a group - but not really learning very much.

I came here to get guidance and help so that by the time I get back to school I wouldn’t be lost. I would know what I’m doing, so yeah, Trinity really helped out.

My Mum found out about Trinity by searching online and we though that Trinity's courses would suit me the best, they are local and the people seemed really nice.

When I first came I was really shy, so my Mum came along and I just forgot she was there. I got totally involved in the session and it was like heaven. My confidence has grown and now I am like; ‘okay, if I can do it through music then I must be able to do it through just speaking to someone or meeting new people’.

Since being at Trinity I joined the BFI Film Academy and made a documentary! I've also been on Ujima, the communtiy radio based in Bristol, have gained work experience with a few companies and I am studying for my A Levels.

I joined one of Trinity's Youth Music courses when I was 17, I was having a really hard time, I'd been kicked out and was on probation. When my probation officer suggested the course to me I didn't even know they existed.

I separated myself from the bad people around me and I had something to focus on - it was a place to come where you don’t feel judged. It's really welcoming and it was nice to have people that believe in you.

So I joined up to the sessions and the tutors helped me put together a CD. To build up my confidence I worked with a lady who worked at Trinity at the time, she helped me with performance - standing on stage singing, things like that. It was just a big self confidence booster for me and gave me the determination to actually do something. I then went off to Access to Music and got my diploma in Music and it was an upward spiral from there on really.

Now I am studying part-time at university whilst also working at a residential young person's care provision with young people aged 8-18.

I am a 21 year old singer songwriter from Thornbury. I enjoy music and skateboarding.  A friend recommended Trinity's music session to me and I’ve really benefited from attending. It’s really good to be in a creative environment working with other musicians and collaborating with them. Coming in to Trinity means I was able to record my album.

It’s a comfortable environment. I’m comfortable with it. It helped me to be more productive and get work done. The staff at Trinity are professional but can have a laugh too, they also know when to knuckle down, which is good for me. I have definitely got more confident since I started. It’s been a boost to my confidence working with other people in a legitimate studio environment. It’s always interesting and enjoyable here at Trinity. There are always great opportunities going on.

Since attending the 121 sessions at Trinity I have gone on to attend a course a the renowned music school BIMM. Last year I performed at Trinity's AGM and played a professional gig at the Fleece in Bristol.

I am French but was born in Switzerland. I am mixed race. I currently in Staple Hill, Bristol. I was born with schizophrenia. I love music especially writing and recording positive rap lyrics. I am currently unemployed.

I was referred across to Trinity by one of my college tutors at Access to Music. I had managed to get through the first year of the course and achieved a pass but it was clear I would really struggle with the amount of assignments and paperwork involved in the second year so they linked me in with Trinity as an alternative. I can now focus on my music without stressing about paperwork which is a really good for me.

The benefit’s of being on a music course at Trinity  are that I can work on my lyrics, music, beats and prepare my album without any pressure. I can take my time. I’m really struggling with my illness at the moment and have been experimenting with different dosages of medication. Sometimes I come in and am too drowsy to properly concentrate on my work. Dave and Al are always really supportive and assure me that I can use the session in whatever way best suits me at the time. It’s good to know they understand. That makes a lot of difference. I enjoy working on a 1:1 basis this means I can get more positive things done in a short space of time.

When I come to Trinity I send some emails out advertising gigs and classes, what are going on here. I like getting out and meeting people and having a laugh. I like getting out and socialising and getting out of the house for a day. I am always kept busy at Trinity and I enjoy myself.

(Us) Can you describe your time at Trinity in three words? Happy, working hard

We want to make sure every young person has a chance to access music learning. We work with young people from a range of backgrounds, from across Bristol and the South West, to help them achieve their potential.

“I found the Trinity to be brilliant and I had great support from the staff” Mitchell, Music Student

Trinity specialises in engaging those who face barriers to participation. Since 2005, we've worked with some of the most vulnerable and socially excluded young people; from young people who feel they are not ready for full time work or education, to referrals from youth offenders and young people in care and hospital.

“This was the first activity that I was interested in, I had not been out my room until this point! I met some of the other young people and got to know them. I really like Al and Dave, they have helped me settle in.” Teenage Cancer Trust Inpatient

Young people referred to us have become disengaged from mainstream learning due to their complex learning needs, behavioural and health issues. After facing exclusion, young people are left feeling isolated from society, leading to anger management, youth-offending and other destructive behaviours.

“I really enjoy the drumming. It’s the first time I’ve ever done any sort of drumming and find smashing on the kit helps me to release my anger. I feel good when I come to Trinity. It gives me something to look forward to every week.” Under 16 who had been excluded from school

Young people either self-refer or are referred to us by youth organisations, including the local council authority social care teams, mental health trusts, pupil referrals units, foster carers, youth offender teams and other charities. These agencies have fed back to us about the positive changes they have seen in the behaviours and attitudes of the young people who we’ve supported.

“My staff at St Matthias are extremely happy to have found this brilliant and rare session, that has had a hugely beneficial impact upon the social and educational progress of our students. I can't rate the experience highly enough and can only commend the Trinity staff and their incredible understanding and patience in working with SEN students. Long may it continue!” St Matthias Pupil Referral Unit

We provide intensive music courses - music production, lyric writing, composition, guitar and percussion - helping young people to develop skills and abilities, achieve accreditations and re-engage with mainstream learning.

“The song writing session that Dave from Trinity delivered last week has inspired her so much that she has gained the confidence to go to voice coaching lessons at school!” Tact Care Foster Carers

Click here for more information about our courses for young people.