The Last Safe Space a straight-talking, data-driven podcast from Music Venue Trust. Each episode breaks down the biggest news affecting the UK’s grassroots music venues - from government policy to local wins, campaigns, crisis cases, and how you can take action to support live music.

In this episode: Toni and Mark Davyd look back on a defining year for the grassroots music ecosystem. From policy battles and frontline crisis support to the rise of community ownership and moments of collective action, they reflect on the pressures, progress, and hard-won victories of the past twelve months. A clear-eyed end of year round-up from Music Venue Trust, closing with thanks to the venues, workers, artists, and audiences who continue to keep the last safe space alive.

Disclaimer: All data is correct on the date of filming 11/12/2025

Join the Supporters Circle:
https://save-our-venues.backstreetmerch.com/collections/membership

Learn more about our work:
https://www.musicvenuetrust.com

Support the show

The Last Safe Space a straight-talking, data-driven podcast from Music Venue Trust. Each episode breaks down the biggest news affecting the UK’s grassroots music venues - from government policy to local wins, campaigns, crisis cases, and how you can take action to support live music.

In this episode: Toni and Mark Davyd break down a week of political pressure, frontline crises, and hard won momentum across the grassroots music venue sector. From the fallout of rising business rates and parliamentary scrutiny, to real time crisis support, rights management escalations, and the power of partnerships and community ownership, this Big Friday Round Up takes stock of a sector holding the line. A clear, data led snapshot of where things stand, why it matters, and how listeners can help keep grassroots venues alive.

Disclaimer: All data is correct on the date of filming 11/12/2025

Join the Supporters Circle:

Learn more about our work:
https://www.musicvenuetrust.com

Support the show

The Last Safe Space a straight-talking, data-driven podcast from Music Venue Trust. Each episode breaks down the biggest news affecting the UK’s grassroots music venues - from government policy to local wins, campaigns, crisis cases, and how you can take action to support live music.

In this episode: Toni speaks with Lala, MVT’s Membership Coordinator, to uncover how the charity understands and supports grassroots venues across the UK. They discuss who makes up the network, the pressures venues are facing, and why MVT has broadened its definition of a grassroots space. A concise look at the data, challenges, and human connections that shape the membership at the heart of Music Venue Trust.

Disclaimer: All data is correct on the date of filming 20/11/2025

Join the Supporters Circle:
https://save-our-venues.backstreetmerch.com/collections/membership

Learn more about our work:
https://www.musicvenuetrust.com

Support the show