Founded in Hull in 2019, Concrete Youth has been recognised on the national stage for its work creating accessible theatre and learning experiences for audiences labelled with profound and multiple learning disabilities.
The charity was celebrated at this year’s National Arts and Cultural Education Awards, reaching the final of the Innovators in Engagement category and receiving further recognition for the work of its Education and Engagement Lead, Annabelle Lee, who was highly commended in the One to Watch award.
Annabelle Lee, Head of Education and Engagement was recognised in the 'One to Watch' category
Created by Chief Executive and Artistic Director Daniel Swift MBE, Concrete Youth was established to address the lack of arts and cultural opportunities available to people labelled with profound and multiple learning disabilities. Since then, the organisation has developed a reputation for creating immersive, multisensory experiences that place accessibility and inclusion at the heart of everything it does.
Over the past seven years, the charity has connected with more than 10,500 people across five continents through performances, workshops and engagement programmes. In 2024, it achieved a major milestone with Sensory Cinders, the first West End production designed specifically for audiences labelled with profound and multiple learning disabilities.
Alongside its productions, Concrete Youth delivers a wide range of educational and community based activities. Working with schools, care settings and cultural organisations, the charity offers bespoke workshops, sensory storytelling sessions, story massage experiences, training programmes and consultancy services, all aimed at making creative experiences more accessible.
The recognition from the National Arts and Cultural Education Awards highlights the organisation’s ongoing commitment to breaking down barriers to participation and ensuring that more people can access high-quality arts and cultural opportunities.
Organised by arts charity Curious Minds, the awards celebrate projects and individuals making a significant impact through creative learning and cultural engagement. This year’s ceremony took place on 21 October at Manchester’s Royal Northern College of Music.
Visit Concrete Youth at their website to find out more!