We support Barnabus, a homeless charity, in Manchester. Our first grant in Feb 2026 was to fund their music therapy programme.
Neil Corthwaite from Barnabus told us about this programme and how it helps people build confidence and deal with stress.
“For over 30 years, Barnabus has been supporting people experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping in Manchester. What began as a small outreach ministry has grown into a frontline homeless charity providing practical support, housing advice, healthcare access and long-term wellbeing services including our own Supported Housing Project, to some of the city’s most vulnerable people.
But homelessness is about far more than lacking a roof over your head. Many of the people who access Barnabus’ services are living with complex trauma, poor mental health, addiction, isolation and the long-term effects of hardship. Recovery is rarely straightforward, which is why we continues to develop support that focuses not only on crisis intervention, but on emotional wellbeing and rebuilding confidence too.
One example of this is music therapy. The sessions provide a safe and welcoming space where people can express themselves creatively, connect with others and experience moments of calm away from the pressures of daily survival. For many guests, engaging in traditional support can feel overwhelming. Music offers a different way to communicate. Through instruments, rhythm, listening and shared participation, guests are finding ways to build confidence, reduce anxiety and reconnect socially.
Through instruments, rhythm, listening and shared participation, guests are finding ways to build confidence, reduce anxiety and reconnect socially. The impact has already been noticeable by our staff and volunteers.
Staff have seen guests who were previously withdrawn begin engaging more positively with others. Some have found the sessions helpful in managing stress and improving their mood, while others simply value having a consistent and supportive environment where they feel included and heard.
Importantly, the sessions also help create routine and trust, both essential parts of recovery and long-term stability. Small moments of connection can make a significant difference for people who have often experienced exclusion and instability for many years.
As homelessness continues to rise across the UK, charities like us are facing increasing demand for both practical and emotional support services. Projects such as music therapy demonstrate the importance of treating people holistically, recognising that recovery involves more than emergency accommodation or financial support.
At Barnabus, the aim has always been not just to help people survive homelessness, but to support them in rebuilding healthier, more hopeful futures. Music therapy is becoming an important part of that journey.
We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to feel seen and supported and through projects like music therapy, we are helping people rediscover their confidence and hope for the future“.
Barnabus is a special charity and we are delighted they are part of our Homeless Hub. This is a long term relationship and we are working together on the next grants to tackle the crisis of homelessness.