Basement Door

The Basement Door is a new charity (having obtained charitable status in February 2018) but its origins go back to 2008 when Katie Thompson, now one of the trustees, had the idea for a music venue run by, and for, young people.

Founded around musical events, its primary objectives were – and are – to provide a safe (drug and alcohol-free) space for young people to socialise while developing the skills and confidence to enter adulthood and the world of work.

Our organisation gives young people access to gain work experience, learn new life skills with our UAS award certification and complete their Duke of Edinburgh Award in a really fun environment.

We also offer volunteering and training opportunities. Once a month we have training sessions that cover many areas including hospitality, sound and light tech, and photography. These training sessions are also AQA Unit Award credited and are enhanced by the practical experience of working every Friday night at The Basement Door events.

All our young volunteers experience what it's like to work as a team and use the skills they have learnt to make the event nights go well.