June 2025
Statement on the future of Urban Vocal Group. June 2025:
Since 2008, the Urban Vocal Group (UVG) has been a prominent feature of the music landscape in Portsmouth, Havant and the South East. It has made a lasting impact, not only by developing young people as singers, but by supporting their confidence, transferable skills and mental wellbeing.
The Guildhall Trust has proudly supported UVG since 2021, investing £22,000 a year in sessions across Portsmouth and Havant. This support has been fully subsidised for several years, as the group aligns closely with our core values. However, due to rising costs and a challenging funding landscape, we are no longer able to continue running UVG in its current format.
After exploring many options, we had made the difficult decision to close the Havant group after the summer holidays. We also had to reduce the number of facilitators in the Portsmouth group, down to 2.
This is not a reflection, in anyway, of the group’s leadership; we are so grateful to the workshop leaders for the dedication, passion and commitment that they have given to the groups, week after week.
In light of this, and for reasons that are completely understandable, Sally, Justine, and Jodie have decided that they feel more comfortable stepping away at this point, due to the reduction in capacity. This is an extremely hard decision for all of them, the groups have been a highlight of their week, and they will miss it greatly.
Looking ahead, the Trust will take time to reflect and plan for the future of UVG. We aim to relaunch a singing offer in early 2026, following a period of recruitment and training for new workshop leaders. Our goal is to develop a sustainable model that continues to support young people, and reflects the values of our organisation. This is not something that we want to rush- the wellbeing of the group and young people is the upmost priority, and it is more important that we spend time to get this right.
Thank you to everyone who has supported UVG over the years- whether by attending sessions, bringing your young people, or joining us at events and showcases. We look forward to working with you again as we move forward.
The Guildhall Trust