The inequalities in our borough (poverty rate 30.5%; 38% of children from income deprived families & 24% have free school meals) have been magnified by the pandemic. Young people suffered from desocialisation & isolation which could affect long-term mental health & reduce life chances. Accessible arts education will help but faces a further crisis as recent government funding cuts has affected cultural institutions & schools. The accessibility of affordable & high-quality classes is under threat

By reducing the financial barrier to accessing our Lyric Theatre classes with more FREE places & maintaining the affordable subsidised cost of £6/w we'll bring young people together into a welcoming, inspiring & inclusive community environment post lockdown. Our classes offer positive & effective arts engagement for young people to improve confidence, well-being, life skills & career pathways. Our long-term track record & community networks will help us recruit young people who need our support