Toni Shaw – Chief Executive of Hampshire and Isle Of Wight Community Foundation

“HIWCF were happy to take a chance and fund the UVG in its early development and we are delighted that this investment in young people has been so successful”

“The UVG reminded me that often, when we see the label ‘youth’… we can dismiss it and wait for the ‘professional’ version. That’s such a mistake. There’s gold out there, and you don’t even have to look at the end of a rainbow”

Zella Compton – Portsmouth News

“The Urban Vocal Group is a really special music charity attracting a diverse group from across the educational and social spectrum. I do believe that participating in the Arts provides a tool for developing vocational skills and aspiration in young people”

David Willets – Minister of State for Universities and Science 2010 – 2014

“HIWCF were happy to take a chance and fund the UVG in its early development and we are delighted that this investment in young people has been so successful”

Toni Shaw – Chief Executive of Hampshire and Isle Of Wight Community Foundation

“6 years I’ve spent with this group. Such an amazing group of people and young talent. This group has given me so much and I strongly suggest you give it a try”

UVG singer

“Thanks to everyone who is involved with running, organising, and everything else that is UVG, none of us would be the same without this amazing free to access group. It’s effected all of us so thank you”

UVG singer

“These young people are a credit to the community! Next time you pass a “kid ” with a hoody on , a piercing/ tattoo or a baseball cap on back to front. Give them a chance and don’t paint them all with the same brush!”

UVG Parent and AUVG singer

“My Daughter began to be bullied in Year 6 however she took this all in her stride and was able to talk openly and confidentially with adults about this. I believe that this is, in part, down to UVG and the confidence and maturity she has gained”

UVG Parent AUVG singer

“This is a worthwhile charity especially as it offers children a place of safety and enjoyment instead of being bored on the streets or sometimes at home without contact with other people in a social environment”

Parent of UVG singer

“Its a pleasure to donate to a charity where I can really see where my donation goes.”

Private donator

“You are doing a fantastic job with the kids and you have sent over more talent then most casting agencies I have been speaking too”

Dwayne Eaton – Assistant Producer ITV Studios

“The charity or UVG family as it’s known from the inside, has provided our boy’s & many more young people with a lifeline in difficult times. A place they can be themselves & so much opportunity to grow as people and as artists!”

Parent of UVG singers

“Thank you so much for putting so many smiles on so many children and young people’s faces and for making what was a dream a reality for so many of them”

Parent of UVG Singer

“I am so proud to be part of a fab group of people that love our children so much. You were all incredible! Not only that, but you all helped my daughter tonight, by being her friend or someone she looks up to!”

AUVG singer and Parent of UVG singer

“You all work amazingly to bring it all together, without you guys most of the kids that performed tonight would never have had the confidence to get up there and perform solos! Amazing bunch who cherish amazing kids!”

Parent of UVG Singer

“…you’ve changed so many lives with what you all do x The confidence shines out in every singer”

Parent of UVG singer

“UVG is also about developing young adults into well rounded musicians no matter the style”

UVG Singer

“Part of the reason I love UVG is the fact that so many children with a scope of capabilities can access it, no matter the back ground and that for many it is a sanctuary where they can be themselves and forget whatever problems may be bothering them” –

Parent of UVG singer

“Anything which enables children to fulfil their potential in a safe and supportive environment deserves recognition, however The UVG provide this at no cost. I would not have been able to afford for my child to receive vocal coaching and access to true professionals. There are no barriers to The UVG and that makes the group even more special”

Parent of UVG singer

“Just got in from the second UVG session at the Guildhall it was great everyone is so welcoming and cheery and Happy !! Can’t wait to go back”

UVG Singer

“Yesterday was my second week of coming to UVG and I’m so grateful that a friend recommended it to me. It’s nice to have a group of people who are committed like I am. I love it!”

UVG Singer

“UVG are a credit to all the team that support these young singers”

“I have only been at UVG a few months now but already my confidence has shot through the roof!”

“The UVG is a place where I don’t worry about my self-confidence, I can do anything there and I’m not scared”

“UVG is important to me because in the past I haven’t had many friends and have been bullied in school and outside clubs but now I have so many new friends and I’m just happier and my confidence has grown”

“My son has autism and finds it very difficult to try new things and make friends. This is the first activity that he has attended with neuro typical young people…and has accepted his needs and giving him all the support that they can.”

Parent of UVG singer

“My son suffers from anxiety, which was diagnosed just over 2 years ago. Since he started at UVG earlier in the year, we have seen his confidence go from strength to strength. …the UVG has played a huge part in his progress & for that I am eternally grateful!”

Parent of UVG singer

“I am quite a private person but I just wanted to say that I think the work that you do is outstanding. Recently new to the group and introduced to it by a friend, singing and music I’m finding is definitely good therapy in what is one of the most difficult and saddest times in life having recently lost my mum to Alzheimers after a 5 year battle. Singing at Victorious, meeting new people and the weekly sessions which are fun and filled with laughter, have without a doubt lifted my confidence. To top this we contribute to a children’s charity which is just perfect. Many many thanks for your tireless work. You are making a real difference in my life, and no doubt the lives of others, for that I cannot thank you enough”

AUVG Singer

“UVG has helped me grow as a person, singer, musician and a performer. I have gained so much confidence, experience, opportunities and a family. It’s crazy to think that I’ve only been there for 10 months! I’ve done many gigs, recorded an EP, attended a song writing course, recorded and performed a song I co-wrote, saw behind the scenes of the UVG on work experience, performed at The Wedge and so so much more! Never would I have had the opportunity to do anything as brilliant as that with all these people! Anyone that loves to sing (even if it’s to your mirror when your parents aren’t in ?) I suggest should at least try it for one session! I want people to have the same opportunities I have had and will have! Thank you” – UVG young singer

UVG young singer