Launch of Culture White Paper

Government-backed strategy to make public-funded arts organisations accessible to all – Culture White Paper.

The Culture White Paper aims to boost access to arts, heritage and culture to help improve social mobility across the country.

The planned four-year programme, by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, will give children the opportunity to have new cultural experiences and engage more with the arts.

For the first time, in more than 50 years, every government-funded museums, theatres, galleries, opera houses and arts groups will be expected to increase access for young people – regardless of their background.

Culture Minister Ed Vaizey said: “Our arts, heritage and culture should be for all – not just the privileged few. Culture opens doors, improves social mobility and has a huge impact on life chances.

“This bold new vision will put culture firmly at the heart of everyday life and ensure that everyone, no matter what their background, can access and enjoy our incredible arts and culture. It can also help us discover untapped talent that could become Britain’s future stars in these vibrant sectors.”

Sir Peter Bazalgette, Chair, Arts Council England said: “We welcome the publication of the Government’s White Paper – the first for the arts since Jennie Lee’s in 1965.

“It contains a number of proposals that we look forward to helping Government deliver, many of which complement existing Arts Council work to promote diversity and improve access to arts and culture for children and young people.”

Arts Council England will begin piloting the programme this year in areas where attendance at cultural events is low – The North West, North East and West Midlands.

This will then expand to include 14,000 young people across the country.

A new Great Place Scheme will bring together national arts and heritage Lottery funders to make culture a core part of council’s plans and policies.