About Key Changes
Key Changes began in 2003 when patients at Highgate Mental Health Centre created a weekly music workshop on the wards.
That shared idea grew into a charity bringing music, recovery and opportunity together.
Why we exist
We support people most affected by mental health inequalities to express themselves, build skills and connect with others through music.
Our work was shaped by people with lived experience from the beginning. That still guides how the charity develops, who we work with and the opportunities we create.
Our mission
We use music to challenge stigma, inequality and discrimination—and to open new possibilities in life and work.
Who we stand alongside
People on low incomes or without secure housing
Global majority and LGBTQ+ communities
Refugees, care leavers and veterans
Neurodiverse and justice-involved people
Our story
Patients at Highgate Mental Health Centre establish the first hospital music workshop.
Demand grows across London, community mentoring begins and the charity becomes Key Changes.
Key Changes Records launches to celebrate original music by artists with lived experience.
Our work brings together participants, healthcare teams, cultural partners and music-industry professionals across England.
Recognition and support
Our work has been recognised by the NHS, local authorities and the Department of Health, and featured by BBC, Sky News, ITV, GRM Daily, LinkUp TV, The Quietus and Trench.
Music-industry supporters include Nao, Zara McFarlane, Warp Music Publishing, Focusrite, Soundtoys, Richer Sounds, Pirate Studios and Band on the Wall.
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