Research supports the thesis that access to the arts and creative learning has a positive impact for young people. However, these activities are increasingly threatened by funding cuts, which ‘could lead to a whole generation of young people growing up without developing the skills that creative learning encourages’. (Tims, C. (Ed.) (2010) Born Creative: DEMOS). We want to ensure that children and young people continue to have access to the arts and creative learning.

We will enable children and young people to access cultural activities that fulfill an identified need and will enhance aspirations and skills. ‘Access to the Arts can have a lasting and transforming effect on many aspects of people’s lives. Research has shown involvement with the arts can increase the overall academic attainment of children, help change the behaviour of offenders and enhance community pride, amongst many other positive outcomes.’ (Department for Culture, Media and Sport 2011).