Our Impact
In 2025 The Bunker:
Facilitated 1,850 rehearsal sessions for 7,200 musicians
Delivered 6200 one-on-one lessons
Delivered 620 group sessions
Showcased 400 bands at 105 gigs
Provided 1500 musicians with performance opportunities
Played to 6000 audience members
Provided 1300 recording sessions
Produced 150 music videos
Interviewed 250 artists featured on our weekly radio show
Reached 15,000 followers across social media channels
Released 30 songs on our record label
Provided 30 volunteer and 15 works experience placements
Demand for our services continues to grow, with many programmes oversubscribed and operating waiting lists.
Our programmes consistently demonstrate positive outcomes including improved confidence, reduced social isolation, stronger peer connections, increased participation in education and training, and improved mental wellbeing.
94% of particpants report increased confidence
82% said they felt more creative
99% reported reduced isolation
We work closely with organisations across Sunderland and the North East to maximise outreach and ensure support reaches those who need it most. Partners include:
- Washington Mind
- Sunderland Recovery College
- Sunderland City Council
- NHS referral pathways
- Grace House
- Local schools and colleges
- Community and voluntary organisations
‘I enjoy the friendly teaching environment and learning music theory.’
‘Great tutoring, encouraging, fun’
‘It’s a good way to learn music while connecting with people at the same time’
‘’It’s impacted my life by giving me lots of opportunities and taught me how to play loads of cool instruments!’’
88% of students are satisfied with their lesson material
100% of students rate our teaching as good or excellent!
100% rate lessons as good value for money
89% of weekly attendees enjoy their lessons
93% of them feel they are making progress within their lessons
99% feel they get a lot of good opportunities through The Bunker
As a Community Interest Company, all profits we generate are reinvested back into our facilities, programmes and community services, helping ensure music remains accessible to everyone. We use creativity to improve wellbeing, build confidence, develop skills and create opportunities for people who may face barriers to education, employment or social inclusion. Through a safe, inclusive and supportive environment, we help people connect, grow and thrive through music. Read more on the wider history of The Bunker and music in Sunderland
Thank you to all our paying customers who come back week after week to support the work we do!
The Bunker would also like to thank all our funders and supporters who make our work possible:
The Bunker would like to thank all our partner organsiations for supporting us in our work:
We’ve been here since 1982
Get In Touch
If you’d like to make an enquiry, you can contact us on 0191 5671777 or alternatively, fill in the contact form and we’ll get back to you!