During Children’s Mental Health Week 2026, we proudly launched VoxFresh IMPACT – a new research-driven initiative exploring the role of singing in supporting positive mental health, belonging and wellbeing for young people aged 8–18.
For years, we have seen it first-hand. When young people sing together, something changes. Shoulders drop. Smiles appear. Friendships form. Confidence grows. But while there is extensive research exploring the benefits of singing for adults, there is far less youth-focused evidence examining how group singing impacts children and teenagers specifically. VoxFresh IMPACT exists to help close that gap.
Our work is built around three clear pillars:
SING
Singing is human. It is accessible, inclusive and fundamentally social. In a singing group, young people create together and achieve together, their voices matter equally.
In a climate where many young people report academic pressure, social media comparison and anxiety about fitting in, singing offers something different. It is not about grades or filters. It is about expression.
National data (NHS and Mental Health organisations) shows that in 2023, 20.3% of 8–16 year olds had a probable mental disorder. At the same time, participation in out-of-school activities is lower among those experiencing mental health challenges. Group environments can provide connection, structure and belonging so that figure needs to change.
We believe singing is more than enrichment. It may be a protective factor.
FEEL
Young people tell us they are worried about loneliness, bullying and expectations to look or act a certain way. Many feel pressure from school and social media. Some do not feel able to talk openly at home.
But they can talk to friends. They do value belonging.
Singing groups create that social network. They provide:
- Safe, supportive spaces beyond school
- Trusted adults outside formal systems
- Strong peer friendships
- Shared identity and collective purpose
In these environments, young people are not defined by academic performance, background, gender, race or religion. Singing does not discriminate and is something every human can do.
We see improved confidence, social connections and friendships, a sense of team and even family.
But seeing is not the same as proving.
PROVE
While adult research into singing and wellbeing is well established, youth-focused evidence remains limited. VoxFresh IMPACT aims to help close that gap.
We will gather measurable data across in-school and out-of-school settings, exploring:
- Belonging and loneliness
- Anxiety and mood
- Attendance and engagement
- Social media pressures
- Sleep and overall wellbeing
We are particularly interested in understanding where singing has the greatest impact. Do out-of-school environments offer different benefits to school-based provision? Can regular participation improve attendance? Does culturally relevant repertoire, including pop music, increase accessibility and inclusion?
Our goal is to move from anecdote to credible, youth-centred evidence that educators, funders and policymakers can trust and utitilise.
A Call to Educators and Music Leaders
If you run a choir, vocal group, performing arts setting or creative programme for young people, we invite you to be part of the next stage of VoxFresh IMPACT. We will use measurable questionnaires to identify patterns nationwide and establish a path forwards to benefit young singers, whether they know they’re a singer yet or not!
We will provide all the materials to collect this research including all policies and procedures to access consent, and maintain confidentiality for all.
Email kat@voxfresh.com to register your interest and find out more.
Singing should not be seen as an optional extra. It may be a protective factor and preventative tool for our young people in an increasingly complex world and needs support and accessibility no matter who or where you’re from.