Belfast City Council has launched a grant scheme to boost access to music and arts events for under 18s.

The initiative, titled Teenage Kicks, will see £2,000 provided to enable promoters and venues to offer more concerts and gigs for young people.

According to the council, the project is designed to deliver ‘safe, high-quality nights out’ that are alcohol-free, and is open to venues, festivals and event organisers.

In partnership with the University of Atypical, the council will also be distributing funding of up to £5,000 in March as part of the Sounds Atypical grant scheme, which aims to support for d/Deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent musicians through the creation of inclusive music spaces in Belfast.

Additional initiatives include a scheme for three traditional musicians to receive mentorship and professional expertise, accompanied by a grant of £3,000 each, as well as a £45,000 support scheme for Gig Buddies, which helps adults with learning disabilities and/or autism connect with volunteers to attend arts events and activities together.

Submissions for the schemes close early in March, while applications for Gig Buddies are open on a rolling basis.

Cllr Ian McLaughlin, Chair of the council’s City Growth and Regeneration Committee, said: ‘Everyone deserves the chance to enjoy their interests and access to music, culture and the arts should be for all of us.’

He added: ‘The Teenage Kicks scheme in particular will really help support an age group which is under-served for things to do that foster their interests and provide an experience tailored to the age and needs.

‘Improving and diversifying our cultural scene in this way also boosts our city’s vibrancy and, together with initiatives like the year-long pilot late-night bus service in Belfast city centre, ensures we are offering a wide range of activities and events for everyone to enjoy.’