Worcester Music Festival picks its charity of the year - The Worcester Observer
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Worcester Music Festival picks its charity of the year

WORCESTER Music Festival has selected as its charity partner for 2026.

All fundraising efforts from the festival, taking place from Friday September 11 to Sunday September 13, will be dedicated to supporting the the work of Worcestershire charity ONSIDE.

Now a major fixture in the region’s cultural calendar, the festival will once again transform Worcester’s city centre, bringing live music to more than 20 venues and showcasing close to 300 artists across three days. Each year, the festival selects a local charity whose work resonates with its community‑driven ethos, and in 2026, the committee chose ONSIDE for its life‑changing impact across the county.

ONSIDE provides advocacy, mentoring, wellbeing support and specialist services for adults who may be vulnerable, disadvantaged or facing discrimination. With a team of dedicated staff and volunteers, the charity supports more than 12,000 people annually, ensuring fairness, dignity and a voice for those who need it most.




Alice Braddick, CEO at ONSIDE, said: “We are absolutely delighted that ONSIDE has been chosen as Charity of the Year for this year’s Worcester Music Festival. It is a tremendous honour to be recognised by such a vibrant and inclusive community spirited event.

“The funds raised will make a vital difference to those who are struggling with significant mental health and wellbeing challenges – who for many our services provide a vital source of support. We are incredibly grateful to everyone involved in organising and supporting the festival for supporting us.”


Ant Robbins, director of Worcester Music Festival, added:“Supporting the local community is at the heart of everything we do, and ONSIDE’s work aligns perfectly with that mission. Their impact across Worcestershire is extraordinary, and we’re proud to champion them throughout this year’s festival.

“We’re now inviting musicians of all genres to apply to perform in 2026. Every year we’re blown away by the generosity of artists who give their time to raise money for important causes, and we can’t wait to curate another incredible line‑up.”

Artists interested in performing at the festival are encouraged to apply via an online application form available on the festival’s website.