Only Notts Timeline
Our journey so far — and what's coming up next.
Volunteering with Childline
Before university, Niall volunteered with Childline, supporting children and young people through some of their hardest moments.
Studying Psychology at University
Niall went to university to study psychology, building the academic foundation that would later shape his trauma-informed approach.
Graduated And Working In Mental Health
After losing Ryan, Niall began working and volunteering across the mental health sector. This included 3 different suicide hotlines, adult mental health facilities, SEN schools, residential support worker for adolescents in care and most recently as an assistant educational psychologist. Years of frontline experience in emotionally complex and challenging environments.
A Choice: Doctorate or Only Notts
Niall was on the path to becoming a clinical psychologist and was preparing for his doctorate. Instead, he chose to build something of his own. Only Notts CIC was born from the belief that music could reach young people before the system catches up with them.
Only Notts CIC Launches
Only Notts CIC officially goes live. The website launches, and the first posts go out on Instagram and TikTok. A trauma-informed music studio in Nottingham City Centre, offering free music sessions for young people in care.
First Donations Come In
The first donations start coming in, helping fund therapy sessions for young people. £600 funds 12 private therapy sessions for one young person.
First Volunteer Joins
Sophie joins the team as the first volunteer, helping with music sessions and supporting the work in the studio.
First Session Delivered
The first young person is referred and attends their first session at the studio. What starts as one taster session grows into a structured 12-week creative music programme, with carers side-by-side.
Nottingham City College — Anti-Knife Crime Song Project
Only Notts works with young people at Nottingham City College to create an original song addressing anti-knife crime. The project is connected to work with Nottinghamshire Police, and a video of the collaboration is produced.
First Community Day
Only Notts holds its first Community Day, bringing young people, carers, and supporters together at the studio.
Let's Celebrate Showcase Fundraiser
Only Notts takes part in the Let's Celebrate Showcase, one of several community events with local businesses. to help us raise money for the CIC.
First Music Quiz Fundraiser
Only Notts runs its first music quiz night to raise funds for the studio and its sessions.
30+ Sessions Delivered
In its first few months, Only Notts delivers over 30 music sessions for young people in care. Sessions embed psychoeducation, including body mapping, meditation, reflective journaling, and narrative therapy.
Public Health England Meeting
A significant meeting with Public Health England. The project is still developing and details can't be shared publicly yet, but it represents a major step towards formal partnerships.