Stars take centre stage in Lifeways Got Talent 2025

They danced, they sang, and they delivered an unforgettable performance! Take a bow to the contestants of Lifeways Got Talent 2025 for the North East region. 

Following a stunning debut in 2023, the team behind the event brought it back for 2025 and expanded it across Lifeways’ supported living services in Northumberland, Yorkshire, the East Midlands and beyond - stretching from Berwick-upon-Tweed down to Nottingham. 

Heats were held across each area, with winners and two runners-up - voted for by the people we support – invited to the grand final at the Netherton Social Club in Bedlington, Northumberland, where they performed in front of more than 100 of their friends. 

The venue’s owners also waived their usual fee especially for the event, helping keep costs down and ensuring everything ran smoothly. 

The winner, chosen by a Clap-o-Meter tracking the applause for each contestant, was Jordan from Area 25, who took to the dancefloor with a show-stopping performance of Michael Jackson’s Thriller, dressed exactly as in the iconic music video. 

He said: “I was so shocked. I dance every single day and it was amazing to get up their in front of everyone today.” 

After the presentation, the event turned into a huge disco for everyone on stage and in the crowd, and it didn’t take long for everyone to get on their feet to celebrate a fantastically fun day. 

Another contestant, Claire from Area 10, who belted out the disco anthem Dancing Queen by Abba, added: “It’s been the best day ever! I’ve been singing since I was young and it feels like I’ve been practicing just for this.” 

Other acts performed crowd favourites ranging from Grease classics to a signed rendition of Westlife’s You Raised Me Up. 

Area Manager Nikki Noble, who helped organise the event, explained that the idea for Lifeways Got Talent grew from an events committee set up after the COVID-19 lockdown.  

"Our Regional Director Tracy Dixon has been so supportive of everything we do, and I can’t thank her and everyone else involved enough,” she said. 

“The wonderful thing about Lifeways is that Area Managers can tailor what they do to the people they support. Having that freedom has helped this event grow into something really meaningful for everyone involved. All our events are embraced by all people we support and teams in the area and they wouldn't be as much of a success without them.” 

Regional Director Tracy Dixon praised Nikki and the rest of the Lifeways team behind the event and shared that plans are already underway for Lifeways Got Talent 2026, as well as the annual football contest. 

“Next year is set to be huge for events across our Lifeways region. Events like Lifeways Got Talent wouldn’t be possible without the support of the people we support, our staff, and the wider Lifeways team.  

“Everyone has really got behind it, and we’re excited to make next year even bigger.”