A pledge to “bring informal learning to life” and to use resources and influence “to create and sustain an informal learning culture” has been proposed by the Government in a new White Paper on Informal Adult Learning (IAL), and signed by 68 organisations. Among its proposals, the paper promises to enable better access to web-based and broadcast resources and to support a Festival of Learning in the autumn this year. Secretary of State for Innovation and Skills, John Denham, said that IAL “makes a huge contribution to the well-being of the nation... during an economic downturn it is essential” and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to IAL through the strategy outlined in the paper. The list of organisations which have signed the pledge so far encompasses government departments (including the DCMS), universities, unions, commercial companies and health organisations. Cultural partners include the Voluntary Arts Network (VAN), Museums Libraries and Archives Council (MLA), engage and the Local Government Association. The MLA has announced the launch of a £100,000 Challenge Fund, offering grants of £5,000 to members organisations which open up their resources to “self-organised groups of learners”. It has also announced the establishment of an Adult Learners Board. Robin Simpson, Chief Executive of VAN, has said “the white paper does not redress the dramatic decline and ongoing problems in arts in adult education”, but welcomed the Government’s recognition of the importance of informal learning.
