Every month of delay pushes more venues to the brink, and communities pay the price. The UK can choose to safeguard the pipeline that feeds its world-leading live music economy, but it must choose quickly.

National support for the grassroots sector has never been closer, but progress now depends on those at the arena and stadium end of the industry stepping up.

We don't have to see communities lose treasured venues, there are meaningful solutions and interventions, some of which are tantalisingly close, but time is of the essence.

This was a determined and forward-looking venue, who had their time cut short by issues outside of their control. Miserable proof that this is an hugely challenging time for UK grassroots music venues, even in dynamic places like Manchester City Centre.

Mother Mary's community is devastated, and we all should be.

Despite these accomplishments and perseverance from the venue team alongside support from MVT, the financial challenges being faced by many UK venues have brought this important work to a close.

In a short period of time they realised those goals, building a dedicated community around the venue and recognition by way of a This Is Manchester Awards nomination.

Thanks to Sam, his whole team, and everyone who's gone out and seen him live from day one to now. At some point you went to watch him for the very first time - maybe at a grassroots venue. Imagine if that moment had never happened.

Our music venues are where lives and careers get their jumpstart, but access to them relies on them staying open. We've lost too many over the last ten years and beyond, but on days like this you can feel the tide starting to change.

He didn’t have to. But he did. And it’s making a real difference. Support like this helps make sure everyone - from any walk of life, in any UK town - has a space to play, listen, and belong.

…as part of our support for the House Of Commons CMS select committee fan led review of live and electronic music, recorded live in Glasgow, hosted by Arusa Qureshi, featuring Mike Grieve (MD Sub Club / Chair NTIA Scotland), Katie Duffy (Head of arts and Music, Glasgow Life), JJ (Exit), and Finlay.

Watch the full discussion from a recent panel now on our YouTube at youtu.be/z5HaSs13pUc

Thank you to our trustees for your unwavering commitment, wisdom, and belief in the power of live music to change lives.

Our trustees give their time, expertise, and passion to ensure that grassroots music venues across the UK not only survive but thrive. They bring insight from across the live music sector, guiding our mission to protect, secure, and improve the spaces where live music begins.

📺 Watch the new episode of The Last Safe Space in full, exclusively on MVT's YouTube at youtu.be/X4hUFz7Ndh4 / via our bio 🔗

Join the #OwnOurVenues movement before 14 November at: www.OwnOurVenues.com

Delivered in partnership with Glasgow Life, NTIA Scotland, The Association For Electronic Music, University of Glasgow.

📸 by Victoria Durand

The review is chaired by Lord Kevin Brennan of Canton and we are pleased to be part of a partnership delivering a series of events where you can help shape this review. Allowing you to speak directly to Lord Brennan and have your voice heard, on your doorstep.

This review aims to champion the areas that work, safeguard the areas under threat and ensure that the health and growth of live music is fair and accessible to all.