DELIVERING rich and engaging music programmes - a Southampton group is set to receive thousands of pounds in aid.

SoCo Music Project will be given £61,760 from the second round of the Government’s Culture Recovery Fund. It is among more than 2,700 recipients to benefit from the latest round of awards from the £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund.

The cash means that SoCo will be able to continue delivering "rich and engaging music programmes supporting the most vulnerable people across Southampton and Hampshire".

More than £300 million has been awarded to thousands of cultural organisations across the country including SoCo Music Project in the latest round of support from the Culture Recovery Fund, the Culture Secretary announced on Friday.

SoCo supports wellbeing and progression through music, working in early years settings, in special education, supporting young people at risk of offending and providing positive activities for vulnerable adults.

Over £800 million in grants and loans have already been awarded to support cultural organisations struggling though the coronavirus pandemic.

The second round of awards will help organisations to look ahead to the spring and summer and plan for reopening and recovery.

Matt Salvage, CEO of SoCo Music Project said: “For the last 12 years SoCo has been committed to supporting people across the Southampton and Hampshire to take part in fun and impactful music making activities.

The pandemic has disrupted everyone’s lives and as we start to find a level of normality, we want to ensure that our activities and events can continue to help with people’s wellbeing and aspirations.

"The Culture Recovery Fund has come at a time when music and the arts will be needed more than ever. We’re extremely grateful to receive this funding and we’re looking forward to providing vibrant and engaging activities.”

Culture Secretary, Oliver Dowden, said: “Our record-breaking Culture Recovery Fund has already helped thousands of culture and heritage organisations across the country survive the biggest crisis they've ever faced. Now we’re staying by their side as they prepare to welcome the public back through their doors - helping our cultural gems plan for reopening and thrive in the better times ahead."