The Music Matters programme is designed to support the growth of Belfast’s music industry by creating internship opportunities that will form part of developing a skilled workforce in the sector.
Belfast City Council has appointed early talent experts Workplus to manage the programme which will support music businesses to hire a paid intern for six months. Seven local businesses can participate with each business awarded up to £5,000towards the costs of employing an intern.
Belfast City Council recognise that Belfast has a thriving and diverse music sector and is keen to support early talent opportunities in this growing sector through inclusive recruitment pathways. The Music Matters programme will support meaningful internships which will hopefully lead to longer term employment opportunities.
Employers partaking in Music Matters will be expected to provide their intern with a defined role and job title. Belfast City Council’s hope is that this programme will open doors for school leavers or career changers in this dynamic sector.
Ruth Harper, Partnerships Manager at Workplus, said, “We’re excited to be working with Belfast City Council on the Music Matters programme. It’s a great initiative which supports both employers and early talent. While it’s fantastic to see a thriving music industry in Belfast, it can be difficult to know where to start to find employment opportunities. This programme is for anyone with the passion for industry, a willingness to learn and can–do attitude.”
It is estimated the Belfast music sector offers direct employment to over 1,780 people and indirectly supports over 560 jobs. The indirect economic impact of the music ecosystem in Belfast reached an output of £89.2 million and a GVA of £43 million.
Music businesses in the Belfast City Council area can apply to take part by 8th November. A webinar for businesses in the sector is taking place on 23rd October at 11.00 am.
Internship applications open on 25 November and close on 20th December.
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