The brief

As a charity communications agency, we helped Nordoff and Robbins establish the first Northern Music Awards in Manchester in 2024. For the 2025 event in Liverpool, the charity asked us to build on this momentum. The goal was to celebrate Northern musical talent, drive awareness of the awards, and spotlight the impact of Nordoff and Robbins’ vital music therapy across the north of England. As a leading non profit communications partner, our role was to bring the event and its purpose to life through targeted media activity and compelling storytelling.

Insights and approach

Planning began months ahead, using a structured media strategy to drive interest, coverage and ticket sales. A sequence of announcements revealed performers, presenters and headline award winners, creating regular news hooks across music, national and regional media. This activity also enabled us to secure pre-event interviews with artists and spokespeople, ensuring strong visibility before the night itself.

To deepen understanding of the charity’s impact, we secured a feature on BBC One’s The One Show. The piece aired the evening before the awards and followed Blossoms — winners of Music Moment of the Year — as they joined a music therapy session at Contact Theatre with young men facing mental health challenges.

We also arranged for shortlisted artist Chiedu Oraka to join a group music therapy session at Asylum Link Merseyside. The resulting features with ITV Granada and the Liverpool Echo showcased the breadth of people supported by Nordoff and Robbins and reinforced the purpose behind the awards.On the night, the media room was packed with national, regional and music journalists including The Guardian, ITV Granada, BBC Radio, Liverpool Echo and Getty. We coordinated artist interviews and photography, working with management teams to ensure winners and performers — from Dr John Cooper Clarke and Ian Broudie to Nia Archives, Blossoms, English Teacher and Luvcat — took part. We also secured a prime broadcast interview slot for Nordoff and Robbins’ CEO, Sandra Schembri, ensuring the charity’s messages were front and centre.

Results

Coverage across TV, radio, print, online and social channels delivered widespread visibility for both the Northern Music Awards and Nordoff and Robbins’ crucial music therapy work. A strong mix of interviews, features and event reporting meant the charity’s messages reached audiences across the region and beyond.

An exclusive post-event story with PA Media ensured extensive national and regional pick-up, including artist reactions, award highlights and clear messaging about the charity’s impact.Our One Show feature ensured the charity’s work was seen by 2.17 million people — a 20.5% share of all UK TV viewers at the time — bringing powerful, real-world examples of music therapy into homes across the country.

Hosted by the UK’s largest music therapy charity, Nordoff and Robbins, the Northern Music Awards, sponsored by Ticketmaster and Live Nation, took place tonight, Thursday 27 March, at the Liverpool Olympia. Created to celebrate incredible musical talent from across the North and raise money for the charity’s vital music therapy services, a whole host of northern artists, music venues, festivals and industry execs were honoured at the second annual awards show, presented by BBC Radio 6 Music’s Chris Hawkins.

The audience enjoyed a performance-packed evening from Northern legends Dr. John Cooper Clarke, Blossoms, Ian Broudie and the Lightning Seeds and The Zutons, taking to the stage along with emerging Liverpudlian talent Luvcat and Hull rapper Chiedu Oraka.

Special guest presenters included a raft of personalities from across the North of England: Vernon Kay, Rick Astley, Peter Hook, The Verve’s Simon Jones, Echo & The Bunnymen’s Will Sergeant, Charity Shop Sue, Vicky Hawkesworth and Simon Rimmer.

Money raised from the Northern Music Awards (NMAs) will go towards expanding Nordoff and Robbins’ music therapy provision throughout the North, using music as a creative health intervention to enhance connection, reduce social isolation and improve mental health for diverse local communities.

The 2025 Northern Music Awards winners:

Acclaimed poet and cultural icon, Salford born Dr. John Cooper Clarke, opened the awards with the rousing poems Hire Car, I’ve Fallen in Love With My Wife, and I Want to be Yours before being presented with the headline Northern Music Award, sponsored by Live Nation by legendary Joy Division and New Order bassistPeter Hook.

Stockport-bred Blossoms wowed the audience with a special acoustic set featuring Gary, Your Girlfriend, and There’s a Reason Why (I Never Returned Your Calls). Pop sensation Rick Astley presented the indie-pop band with the Music Moment of the Year Award, sponsored by American Express, to honour their incredible live performances and hugely successful album campaign for their No. 1 smash “Gary”.

Liverpudlian legend, Ian Broudie took to the stage with Lightning Seeds who performed crowd pleasing hits Life of Riley and Pure. Ian was presented with the Special Recognition Award,sponsored by SJM Concerts, by Echo & The Bunnymen’s songwriter and guitarist Will Sergeant.

The Zutons closed the Northern Music Awards with a powerful set that included performances of You Will You Won’t and Valerie and were presented with the Band of the Year award, sponsored by Legends and ASM Global, by fellow Liverpudlian, Ian Broudie.

Following 2024’s NMA for Newcomer of the Year, English Teacher scooped this year’s Album of the Year award, sponsored by Rough Trade, for their critically-acclaimed debut “This Could Be Texas“.
The Disruptor in Music award, sponsored by Sentric, went to Yungblud, who accepted the award via a video acceptance speech.
The Leeds-born and Manchester-raised singer, producer and DJ, Nia Archives won the Artist of the Yearaward, sponsored by Ticketmaster and presented by comedian Charity Shop Sue.

Carlisle-born Radio 1 Future Dance’s Sarah Story won DJ of the Year, presented by BBC Radio 2’s Vernon Kay.
Alongside an electric performance of Matador and He’s My Man, Liverpool-born Luvcat was presented with the Breakthrough Act of the Year award, sponsored by BOXPARK Liverpool, by The Verve’s Simon Jones.

Hip-hop and grime artist from Hull, Chiedu Oraka gave a powerful performance of Mayne, Champs On My Grave, Helly Hansen 6, and N.H.E (North Hull Estate) and was named Newcomer of the Year, sponsored byThe Cavern Club and presented by Hull musician Stewart Baxter.

Earlier in the evening, ahead of the public awards show, the Northern Music Awards celebrated music industry stars, venues and festivals from across the region:

Posthumously, much loved live music promoter Chris York was honoured by the room and named Industry Icon, sponsored by Tysers Live. Rick Witter and Paul Banks of Shed Seven accepted the award on behalf of Chris’s family.

The Lake District’s Kendal Calling won the Festival of the Year Award, voted by the public and sponsored by The Guide Liverpool.

BBC Radio 1 presenter Vicky Hawkesworth presented this year’s Inspirational Venue of the Year awards, sponsored by Seat Unique, with a percentage of the sponsorship fee being shared with the Music Venue Trust. Beloved Yorkshire venue, The Trades Club in Hebden Bridge was named Inspirational Venue of the Year under 2,000 capacity and Grade I listed architectural and cultural phenomenon, The Piece Hall in Halifax took the award for Inspirational Venue of the Year over 2,000 capacity.
Liverpool Philharmonic took home the Music and Culture for Wellbeing Award, sponsored by Flare Audio and presented by Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram. This category was created to honour an organisation, group or project offering high quality, creative health provision in the North of England that uses music, arts and culture to support people with health, wellbeing and socio-economic issues.
A&R and artist manager, Sally Bryant was presented with The Nordoff and Robbins Industry Rising Star Award, by TV chef Simon Rimmer, for her flourishing early-stage career and commitment to Northern music.

Sandra Schembri, CEO, Nordoff and Robbins, said: “This year’s Northern Music Awards have been a phenomenal celebration of the talent, passion and creativity that makes the North such a powerhouse of music. We are incredibly proud to recognise and support the artists, venues, events, industry professionals and community initiatives that make real impact. Music has the power to inspire, unite and change lives and tonight’s winners and nominees embody that spirit. We’re beyond grateful to everyone who has supported this event, helping to raise vital funds to ensure we can continue to deliver essential music therapy across the region. We’ll be heading to another host city in the North for next year’s Northern Music Awards – so watch this space!”

Nordoff and Robbins is continuing to work strategically in the North of England to deliver more music therapy to where it’s needed the most. The region is the charity’s largest service area, with 55 music therapists and 164 partner organisations providing over 23,500 music therapy sessions in 2024, transforming the lives of more than 6,500 people in the region.

In Liverpool, Nordoff and Robbins delivered nearly 2,000 music therapy sessions to over 600 people in 2024, and have ambitions to increase this number with the help of money raised during tonight’s event.

Find out more about the Northern Music Awards and music therapy at https://www.nordoff-robbins.org.uk/northern-music-awards/

Vapes marketed as ‘nicotine free’ found to contain nicotine

New data published by National Trading Standards reveal 13% of supposedly ‘nicotine free’ vapes on sale in the UK contain the highly addictive substance
Businesses and vapers urged to be vigilant and report suspected cases

New data published today by National Trading Standards reveal supposedly nicotine free vapes on sale to UK consumers have been found to contain nicotine. The findings have been published as Trading Standards continue to unearth new intelligence around the illegal vapes market.

As part of Operation Joseph – a Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) funded initiative tracking the sale of illicit vapes and underage sales – 76 products sold as nicotine free vapes were tested by Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service, working together with Trading Standards teams in Salford and Berkshire.

More than one in every eight (13.2%) of the products were found to contain nicotine in amounts ranging from 0.06 mg/ml to 27.02 mg/ml – around the amount delivered by a pack of 20 cigarettes.*

All ten were also found to exceed the limit on the amount of e-liquid permitted in vapes with two found to exceed both the e-liquid and nicotine strength limit.**

As a result, consumers hoping to buy nicotine free products would have been exposed to nicotine and its addictive effects and in significant quantities with eight of the ten failed samples.

Lord Michael Bichard, Chair, National Trading Standards, said:

“Nicotine free vapes can be a useful tool to quit smoking and reduce nicotine dependency, but these findings reveal that people can actually continue to be stuck in a cycle of addiction if sold the highly addictive substance unknowingly.

“Businesses should be aware vapes falsely claiming to be nicotine free are in circulation and should make sure they are not breaking the law by selling products that are falsely advertised, especially where they are importing goods or acting as the main UK distributor.

“I urge businesses and consumers to be vigilant and report suspected cases to the Citizens Advice consumer service by calling 0808 223 1133.”

Alex Fry, Operations Officer for Heart of the South West Trading Standards, said:

“We are pleased to have contributed to and helped co-ordinate the sampling of this project. We recognise how important it is for regulators and legislators to have up to date intelligence on what products are being supplied to consumers.

“Trading Standards are at the forefront of ensuring products comply with legal requirements and we hope that the findings will provide valuable intelligence and help shape the future regulation of cigarettes, tobacco and vapes.”

English Teacher to be recognised with the Album of the Year accolade for This Could Be Texas and Yungblud to be named Disruptor in Music winner
Live music celebrated as The Piece Hall in Halifax and The Trades Club in Hebden Bridge win Inspirational Venue of the Year awards

Acclaimed poet, performer and cultural icon, Dr. John Cooper Clarke, will receive the prestigious 2025 Northern Music Award and give an intimate performance of his unique brand of poetry at the second annual Northern Music Awards.

Hosted by the UK’s largest music therapy charity, Nordoff and Robbins, the 2025 Northern Music Awards sponsored by Ticketmaster and Live Nation will be held at the Liverpool Olympia on Thursday 27 March. Clarke will be joining a stellar line up of Northern performers on the night including Blossoms, Lightning Seeds, The Zutons, Chiedu Oraka and Luvcat.

Won by The Charlatans’ Tim Burgess at the inaugural awards in 2024, the headline Northern Music Award, sponsored by Live Nation, will be presented to Dr. John Cooper Clarke at the star-studded ceremony in Liverpool to celebrate his exceptional influence on the worlds of music, poetry, and beyond. His distinctive blend of punk poetry and music, alongside his enduring presence as a voice for alternative culture, has made him a standout figure within the Northern, and wider UK creative communities.

Critically acclaimed indie band, English Teacher, will be presented with the Album of the Year award. The band made waves in 2024 by winning Newcomer of the Year at the inaugural Northern Music Awards, and their album, “This Could Be Texas,” is being celebrated for its bold sound and innovative lyrics which earned the band widespread praise from critics and fans alike.

This year’s Disruptor in Music award will see Yungblud crowned for his audacious artistic vision and boundary-pushing sound. Known for his raucous mix of rock, pop, and punk influences, Yungblud has cultivated a global following, using his platform to amplify underrepresented voices, tackling themes of identity, mental health, and social issues, resonating deeply with fans who see him as a voice for their generation.

Taking place at the historic Liverpool Olympia, the Northern Music Awards, sponsored by Ticketmaster and Live Nation,are the only awards set up specifically to recognise and celebrate the breadth of musical talent across the North of England.

Tickets, priced from £40 (+ £1 venue restoration levy), are available for anyone to purchase online now at nordoff-robbins.org.uk/northern-music-awards. Ticket prices include a free souvenir brochure, a gift from Flare Audio and entry to an exclusive Northern Music Awards afterparty at BOXPARK Liverpool with free welcome drink.

As well as celebrating the talented artists and musicians from across the North, the Northern Music Awards pay homage to the Northern venues that showcase developing artists and global superstars. This year’s Inspirational Venue of the Year awards, sponsored by Seat Unique, will go to the following venues, with a percentage of the sponsorship fee being shared with the Music Venue Trust:

Inspirational Venue of the Year under 2,000 capacity: The Trades Club, Hebden Bridge
Inspirational Venue of the Year over 2,000 capacity: The Piece Hall, Halifax

Additional awards to be announced on the night include Artist of the Year, sponsored by Ticketmaster, which will honour an artist who has had an exceptional last 12 months of releases and performances, and DJ of the Year, crowning an accomplished headliner and radio DJ from the North. The Festival of the Year award has received hundreds of votes from readers of The Guide Liverpool and the winner will also be revealed on the night.

Nordoff and Robbins is also pleased to announce the shortlist for this year’s Music and Culture for Wellbeing Award, sponsored by Flare Audio, which will be awarded to an organisation, group or project offering high quality, creative health provision in the North of England that uses music, arts and culture to support people with health, wellbeing and socio-economic issues. The shortlist includes Bridge Creative (County Durham), Liverpool Philharmonic Music & Health Programme (Liverpool), Purple Patch Arts (Leeds), Pyramid High Rise Music Group (Leeds), String of Hearts CIC (Manchester) and Warren Records at The Warren Youth Project (Hull).

Hosted by BBC Radio 6 Music presenter Chris Hawkins, with specially commissioned awards designed by contemporary British artist Thomas Wolski, the Northern Music Awards take place in a different Northern city every year to ensure every corner of the region is celebrated.

The North of England is Nordoff and Robbins’ largest service area, with 55 music therapists and 164 partner organisations providing over 23,500 music therapy sessions in 2024, transforming the lives of more than 6,500 people in the region.

The charity is continuing to work strategically in the North to deliver more music therapy to where it’s needed the most. Statistics show that Liverpool is the third most deprived local authority, with 63% of residents living in the most deprived areas in England. In 2024, Nordoff and Robbins delivered nearly 2,000 music therapy sessions to over 600 people in Liverpool, with ambitions to increase the number of people they work with in the area.

Money raised from the Northern Music Awards will go towards expanding Nordoff and Robbins’ music therapy provision in Liverpool and across the North of England, using music as a creative health intervention to enhance connection, reduce social isolation, and improve mental health and well-being for diverse local communities across the region.

Dr. John Cooper Clarke said: “I am knocked out to receive this award. The North is where it all started for me, and I’m honoured to be recognised in this way. I look forward to celebrating with the incredibly talented winners at the Northern Music Awards and to support the life-changing music therapy work that Nordoff and Robbins delivers for people across the North.”

English Teacher lead singer, Lily Fontaine, said: “We’re so incredibly proud to have won Album of the Year. Winning Newcomer of the Year last year felt like a dream come true, and now to be recognised for our debut album is a true testament to the hard work and dedication we’ve put into our music. We’re firm believers in music’s power to connect and heal and continue to support Nordoff and Robbins’ vital work.”

Yungblud said: “I’m so grateful for this recognition and for the chance to support such an important cause with Nordoff and Robbins. I’ve always believed that music should be a tool for change, for breaking down barriers, and for creating spaces where people can unapologetically be themselves. This award is for all the misfits and the dreamers. Let’s keep disrupting together.”

Sandra Schembri, CEO, Nordoff and Robbins, said: “We’re so excited to be honouring Dr. John Cooper Clarke at this year’s Northern Music Awards. With his distinctive style, sharp wit, social commentary and an inimitable delivery, he has become a household name, bringing poetry to new audiences and inspiring generations of musicians, artists and fans alike. His work continues to be celebrated around the world, while his influence remains a constant in both literary and music circles, so this award is testament to his outstanding career and the ongoing relevance of his work within the cultural tapestry of the North.

“Music has the power to heal, connect and transform lives, and this year’s Northern Music Awards is not just about celebrating the outstanding talent across the region, it’s about making a real difference. Rising costs and increasing demand for music therapy mean that the funds raised at this event are critical to helping us bring vital support to people across the North, from hospitals and care homes to schools and community centres. Every contribution ensures we can reach more individuals in need, using music to create meaningful change.”

A total of 16 awards will be given out on the night, including – new for 2025 – Album of the Year and Industry Rising Star:

· The Northern Music Award 2025, sponsored by Live Nation – Dr. John Cooper Clarke

· Special Recognition Award, sponsored by SJM Concerts – Ian Broudie

· Artist of the Year, sponsored by Ticketmaster – To be announced

· Band of the Year, sponsored by Legends and ASM Global – To be announced

· Album of the Year – English Teacher, This Could Be Texas

· Music Moment of the Year, sponsored by American Express – To be announced

· Disruptor in Music – Yungblud

· Newcomer of the Year, sponsored by The Cavern Club – To be announced

· Breakthrough Act of the Year, sponsored by BOXPARK Liverpool – To be announced

· DJ of the Year – To be announced

· Music and Culture for Wellbeing, sponsored by Flare Audio – To be announced

· Festival of the Year, voted for by readers of The Guide Liverpool – To be announced

· Inspirational Venue of the Year Under 2,000 Capacity, sponsored by Seat Unique – The Trades Club, Hebden Bridge

Inspirational Venue of the Year Over 2,000 Capacity, sponsored by Seat Unique – The Piece Hall, Halifax

· Industry Icon, sponsored by Tysers Live – To be announced

· The Nordoff and Robbins Industry Rising Star Award – To be announced

Nordoff and Robbins provides essential music therapy for those living with dementia, autism, learning difficulties, brain injuries, life-limiting illnesses, mental health issues, grief and trauma.

Find out more about Nordoff and Robbins at nordoff-robbins.org.uk

The brief

Health Care Without Harm Europe appointed us as their creative communications partner to deliver the brand creation and supporting materials for Born Green Generation, a new global initiative aiming to protect current and future generations from the harmful effects of plastics and chemicals in healthcare. Alongside the brand development, we were asked to design a three-year, multi-channel communications strategy that would bring the movement to life. The brand needed to feel approachable and accessible while inspiring behaviour change in clinical environments — an ambitious task for a programme designed to be as enduring as anti-smoking campaigns.

Insights and approach

Our work began with a full immersion phase to shape both the brand and the long-term communications strategy. Through research, landscape audits, analysis, workshops and extensive stakeholder interviews, we built a clear understanding of the initiative’s potential and its constraints.

Key insights guided our approach:

We needed to lead with healthcare messaging rather than environmental framing.
Babies had to sit at the heart of the narrative and visual identity.
The movement should feel positive, achievable and solutions-focused — not overwhelming.

These insights led us to define creative territories that could work across different countries, hospitals and audiences, while remaining rooted in the movement’s mission.

Results

From this work, a clear creative direction emerged: Born Green Generation: Great potential, enormous impact. This territory balanced the scale of the problem with the hopeful, human focus of the initiative.The new visual identity centres on a continuous-line logo depicting a parent and child — a simple, emotive symbol of protection and care. To resonate with healthcare professionals today and parents tomorrow, we developed a bright, flexible visual system inspired by the textures and shapes of wooden children’s toys. It is warm, adaptable and intentionally playful, ensuring the brand can grow with the movement as it expands globally.

Liverpudlian legend Ian Broudie to be presented with the Special Recognition Award
Festival of the Year shortlist to be decided by public vote

The UK’s largest music therapy charity, Nordoff and Robbins, is today announcing the unmissable performance packed line-up for the second Northern Music Awards sponsored by Ticketmaster and Live Nation, to be held in Liverpool on Thursday 27 March.

Ian Broudie, legendary singer, songwriter, producer and frontman of indie-pop royalty, Lightning Seeds, will be honoured with the prestigious Special Recognition Award sponsored by SJM Concerts at the event, and the band will be taking to the stage for a special live performance. The stellar line-up will also include Stockport-bred indie-pop band, Blossoms, Liverpudlian indie-rockers The Zutons, Liverpool’s rising romantic rock star Luvcat and – at the forefront of Hull’s rap scene – Chiedu Oraka.

Taking place this year at the historic Liverpool Olympia, the Northern Music Awards sponsored by Ticketmaster and Live Nation honour the very best artists, festivals, venues and industry figures from across the North. Held for the first time in Manchester in April 2024, the Northern Music Awards are the only awards set up specifically to recognise and celebrate the breadth of musical talent across the North of England.

Hosted by BBC Radio 6 Music presenter Chris Hawkins, with specially commissioned awards designed by contemporary British artist Thomas Wolski, the Northern Music Awards take place in a different Northern city every year to ensure every corner of the region is celebrated. Money raised from the event will go towards increasing Nordoff and Robbins’ music therapy provision in the North of England, using music as a creative health intervention to enhance connection, reduce social isolation, and improve mental health and well-being for diverse local communities across the region.

Tickets to the 2025 Northern Music Awards, priced from £40 (+ £1 venue restoration levy), are available to purchase online now at nordoff-robbins.org.uk/northern-music-awards.

Winner of the 2025 Northern Music Awards Special Recognition Award sponsored by SJM Concerts, Ian Broudie, formed the Lightning Seeds in 1989 and enjoyed prolific success with a string of hits throughout the 90s and beyond, including The Life of Riley, Lucky You, Three Lions and Pure. The proud Liverpudlian’s multi-decade spanning career has also included production for the likes of Echo and the Bunnymen and fellow Northern Music Awards performers, The Zutons.

Ian Broudie said: “It’s a huge honour to receive this award, particularly in the year that the Northern Music Awards comes to Liverpool, a city I’m very proud to call my hometown. I’m excited to perform at the Liverpool Olympia and to celebrate the immense talent that we continue to see thriving in the North. The feeling and emotion that we all get from music is incredibly powerful, and you see that so clearly in the life-changing music therapy that Nordoff and Robbins delivers, so I’m very proud to be raising funds for their work to help people connect and communicate across society.”

The performance line-up at the 2025 Northern Music Awards will also feature:

Following an astounding year, Stockport-bred, acclaimed indie-pop band, Blossoms, will perform a special acoustic set featuring hits from the five-piece’s multiple hit number one albums which include Foolish Loving Spaces, Ribbon Around the Bomb and Gary.
Eclectic indie rockers The Zutons. Best known for their hit singles Valerie and Why Won’t You Give Me Your Love?, the Liverpool band released their long-awaited fourth studio album The Big Decider in 2024, and will take to the stagefor a memorable live performance, kicking off a series of live dates.
Rapidly rising artist Luvcat, shortlisted for the Newcomer of the Year Award,will share her unique brand of jazz influenced romantic rock with ticketholders. The Liverpudlian singer-songwriter’s recent releases including He’s My Man and Dinner @ Brasserie Zédel have catapulted her to star-status and earned a devoted fanbase of ‘Kittens’.
Lyrical artist and leading figure in Northern rap, Chiedu Oraka, from Hull, will bring his high-octane performance, genre-defying talent and impactful social poetry to the Northern Music Awards stage. Chiedu is also shortlisted for the Newcomer of the Year Award alongside Luvcat, Beth McCarthy, The KTNA, Pixey and Seb Lowe.

As well as celebrating the North’s incredible artists, the Northern Music Awards recognise outstanding live music events in the region, that provide a platform for diverse talent to perform. The Festival of the Year shortlist for the 2025 Northern Music Awards is:

Kendal Calling (Lake District)
Tramlines (Sheffield)
Neighbourhood (Manchester)
TK Maxx presents Lytham Festival (Lytham Saint Annes)
Parklife (Manchester)
Sound City (Liverpool)

The winner of the Festival of the Year category will be decided by the public, with voting open at The Guide Liverpool until 7 February. Those who vote can also enter a competition to win two tickets to the awards show.

Championing the Northern venues that nurture developing artists and showcase global superstars, winners for the Inspirational Venue of the Year Under 2,000 and over 2,000 Capacity categories, sponsored by Seat Unique, will be announced soon, with a percentage of the sponsorship fee being shared with the Music Venue Trust.

Nordoff and Robbins provides essential music therapy for those living with dementia, autism, learning difficulties, brain injuries, life-limiting illnesses, mental health issues, grief and trauma. The North of England is Nordoff and Robbins’ largest service area, with 55 music therapists and 164 partner organisations providing over 23,500 music therapy sessions in 2024, transforming the lives of more than 6,500 people in the region.  

 Blossoms said: “We’re proud to be part of this year’s Northern Music Awards – a unique event which really shines a light on the breadth of talent coming out of the North. Supporting Nordoff and Robbins is something we’re genuinely passionate about. Music has the power to heal, and we’re honoured to help raise awareness for such an important cause.”

The Zutons said: “We can’t wait to perform at the Northern Music Awards with such a great line-up of talent, and to be supporting Nordoff and Robbins’ life-changing music therapy – which makes it even more special for us. We’re thrilled to be part of an event that not only showcases the Northern music scene but makes a real difference to people across the North.”

Luvcat said: “I’ve had the most amazing year! To be sharing the Northern Music Awards stage with such a range of incredible artists and honouring the massive contribution the North makes to the music scene – all while supporting Nordoff and Robbins – is another cherry on the cake. I’m super grateful and excited to perform.”

Chiedu Oraka said: “Performing at the Northern Music Awards with such great Northern talent is a massive moment for me, and I’m proud to be raising money for Nordoff and Robbins in the process. Music has always been a way for me to connect, express and heal, so to back a charity that uses it in such a powerful way is something I’m honoured to do.”

Sandra Schembri, CEO, Nordoff and Robbins, said: “We’re beyond thrilled to announce the spectacular performance lineup for this year’s Northern Music Awards. The North’s music scene is a vibrant, diverse force, and these artists are shining examples of the exceptional talent that continues to emerge from the region. From iconic names to rising stars, this is going to be a celebration of everything that makes Northern music so special and we can’t wait to celebrate in Liverpool, a city with a rich musical heritage that is admired around the world.

“Not only are we looking forward to honouring brilliant musicians and industry talent at this year’s Northern Music Awards, but we’re also raising vital funds to support our music therapy work. With costs rising and demand for our services increasing, every pound raised at the event will help us deliver more transformational music therapy sessions to people across the North, from care homes to hospitals and schools to community centres. Music truly has the power to change lives.”

A total of 16 awards will be given out on the night, including – new for 2025 – Album of the Year and Industry Rising Star:

The Northern Music Award 2025, sponsored by Live Nation
Special Recognition Award, sponsored by SJM Concerts
Artist of the Year, sponsored by Ticketmaster
Band of the Year, sponsored by ASM Global
Album of the Year
Music Moment of the Year, sponsored by American Express
Disruptor in Music
Newcomer of the Year
Breakthrough Act of the Year
DJ of the Year
Music and Culture for Wellbeing
Festival of the Year, voted for by readers of The Guide Liverpool
Inspirational Venue of the Year Under 2,000 Capacity, sponsored by Seat Unique
Inspirational Venue of the Year Over 2,000 Capacity, sponsored by Seat Unique
Industry Icon, sponsored by Tysers Live
Industry Rising Star

Find out more about Nordoff and Robbins at nordoff-robbins.org.uk. 

Carol Service takes place at St Luke’s Church in Chelsea, London, on Tuesday 10 December 2024

Hosted by Smooth Radio presenter Angie Greaves with guests, Nordoff and Robbins ambassadors Carrie and David Grant, plus reader Jemma Redgrave

Nordoff and Robbins, the UK’s largest music therapy charity, is delighted to announce that Jamie Cullum, East 17’s Tony Mortimer and Lemar will all be delivering special performances as part of its annual Christmas Carol Service, taking place at St Luke’s Church in Chelsea, London on Tuesday 10 December, from 7pm.

Headliner Jamie Cullum will delight the audience at the Carol Service, bringing his unique style of jazz-pop with a Christmas special performance. Renowned singer-songwriter Tony Mortimer will be celebrating 30 years of East 17’s iconic Christmas number one ‘Stay Another Day’ with a rare piano performance of the classic song, accompanied by singers from the Latymer Prep School Choir. Award-winning soul singer and songwriter Lemar completes the musical line up, bringing plenty of festive cheer to the stunning 300-year-old West London church.

Tickets are available now from the Nordoff and Robbins website priced at £60, including a souvenir brochure, mulled wine, mince pie and plenty of opportunities to sing along to classic carols, with donations encouraged throughout the evening.

Smooth Drive Home Radio presenter Angie Greaves will host the evening of classic carols, star performances and festive readings. Award-winning broadcasters Carrie and David Grant will share the importance of Nordoff and Robbins’ work, with actor Jemma Redgrave joining as a special guest reader.

The unforgettable, uplifting Nordoff and Robbins Carol Service has been raising funds for essential music therapy services for some of the most isolated and vulnerable people, including those experiencing mental health challenges, across the UK since 1997. Previous performers include Kaiser Chiefs, Sugababes, Nile Rodgers, Emeli Sandé, Sir Rod Stewart and Robbie Williams.

With a career spanning over 20 years, Jamie Cullum has recorded nine studio albums, three compilation albums, one live album and twenty-four singles including his major label breakthrough, ‘Twentysomething’, and its follow up, ‘Catching Tales’. He won the Ivor Novello ‘Best Song Musically and Lyrically’ award for ‘The Age of Anxiety’ from his critically acclaimed album, ‘Taller’. His legendary live shows have seen him perform and work alongside artists as diverse as Pharrell Williams, Kendrick Lamar, Herbie Hancock and IDLES – Jamie writing on the latter’s album ‘Ultra Mono’. In addition to his enduringly successful recording career, Jamie has also established himself as a multi-award-winning music broadcaster; his BBC Radio 2 jazz show recently celebrated its 14th year on air.

Tony Mortimer founded one of the biggest boybands of the 90s, East 17, writing their biggest hit, Stay Another Day, in 1994. Loved by generations, this timeless Ivor Novello Award-winning track has become a staple of the festive season and its legacy is enormous. Written by Tony as a tribute to a life tragically cut short, the deeply personal song serves as a reminder of the power of music to connect, heal and comfort.

On the 30^th anniversary of the song reaching Christmas number one, Tony has partnered with Nordoff and Robbins for its Christmas appeal to highlight the benefits of music therapy for young people living with mental health challenges – like 17-year-old Ruby, who found that music therapy gave her a safe space to express herself when she needed it most. ‘Stay Another Day’ will be released by London Records on a Limited Edition ‘ice clear’ 7”vinyl for the anniversary on 13th December via east17.lnk.to, and the label will donate £1 of every sale to Nordoff and Robbins Music Therapy.

Lemar is a multiple BRIT and MOBO award-winning singer-songwriter, record producer and actor. Lemar has become known as one of the best soul voices in the UK, releasing hit single ‘Dance (With U)’ and ‘If There’s Any Justice’ to international acclaim, along with 8 studio albums, three of which have gone platinum. Recently he has added acting to his repertoire, starring alongside Jamelia in the family film Little Darlings (2022) and popular Netflix series Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story (2023). This year, Lemar has brought his singing and acting talents to the West End as ‘Curtis Jackson’ in Sister Act the Musical opposite Beverley Knight and Alexandra Burke.

Jamie Cullum said: “I’m a long-term supporter of the wonderful work of Nordoff and Robbins. I was proud to present Jacob Collier with the Innovation award at the charity’s O2 Silver Clef Awards earlier this year, and I’m glad to continue to highlight the importance of music therapy. I know myself that music of all genres can soundtrack our lives – giving us joy or solace. Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year and St Luke’s church is a wonderful space, so I can’t wait to perform at this truly unique carol service.”

Tony Mortimer said: “Through this collaboration with Nordoff and Robbins, I really want to raise awareness of how music can offer hope, expression and healing to people everywhere. This 30-year anniversary is more than just a celebration of a song—it’s a call to remember the profound impact that music can have on our lives, particularly in moments of struggle. By raising money for life-changing music therapy, I’m also looking forward to making a difference to young people who are living with mental health problems. Together, we can ensure that the power of music continues to uplift and support those who need it.”

Lemar said: “I’m so looking forward to being part of such a fantastic festive celebration and supporting the work that Nordoff and Robbins’ amazing music therapists do. Music has been a constant in my life and I know that the melody of a song, the sound of a voice or the story of the lyrics can transport you to another place and help you through difficult times. Nordoff and Robbins brings music’s transformative power to the people who need it most, helping to reconnect a child with autism, a dad with dementia, or a young person rebuilding their lives after an accident. I’m proud to shine a light on the charity’s work and it’s going to be a really special night.”

Sandra Schembri, CEO of Nordoff and Robbins said: “Our joyful carol service always marks the start of the festive season, but of course music can empower us all year round. For our clients like 17-year-old Ruby, who has struggled with severe mental health problems since she was 14, music therapy can quite simply save lives. Ruby’s sessions with her music therapist Jered have helped her gain confidence – giving her a safe space to express herself without fear or judgements of society. People like Ruby and her Mum, Bev, are at the heart of everything we do – and thanks to the wonderful support from the artists who are helping us to raise money this year, we can deliver music therapy to more clients across the UK.”

Nordoff and Robbins’ trained music therapists work with children and adults with extreme life challenges, including mental health, physical injuries, disabilities and terminal illness. In 2023, Nordoff and Robbins music therapists held 49,129 therapy sessions reaching 13,776 individuals throughout the year. The charity also worked with 389 partner organisations such as schools, care homes and hospices to provide much needed music therapy. 117 of the charity’s 164 strong workforce are music therapists and 21 graduates from the Nordoff and Robbins Masters in Music Therapy were employed in 2023.

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