Robertson announces Scottish culture funding review

Scottish Culture Secretary Angus Robertson has outlined details of a review into how the nation’s culture sector is supported, which will be interrelated with a planned review of Creative Scotland.

In a communication to SNP MSP Clare Adamson, Robertson said that the sector-wide examination would “not take the form of a traditional review” but will instead adopt an “action-orientated approach” to develop and engage a range of new practices “at pace”.

As part of the programme, the Scottish government will initially concentrate on the investigation and development of innovative funding solutions for the sector, including the percentage for the arts scheme, corporate social sponsorship and philanthropy.

Additionally, the review will also focus on the delivery of a £4m Culture and Heritage Capacity Fund, which was announced in the government’s budget last December.

The fund, introduced to help heritage and culture organisations build capacity and resilience in recognition of the “significant challenges” they face, will form part of an ongoing evaluation of sector support delivery and its relative impact.

Robertson said government is seeking to monitor and learn from funded activity, including by modifying interventions “in an iterative manner” whilst evaluating impact and sharing the findings.

Creating 21st Century models

“The development of a strategic approach to positive change; creating 21st century models for organisations that are collaborative, resilient and deliver for Scotland’s communities, will be central to the Culture and Heritage Capacity Fund,” said Robertson.

He confirmed that development of remit and delivery of the fund is currently in the early stages and details, including a timeline, will be set out “in due course”.

The Scottish government has already engaged in sector-wide survey seeking views on current service provision and future culture sector needs, with over 750 responses, the findings of which are expected to be published later in spring.

The findings from the first year of the Sector Support Programme may inform elements of the Creative Scotland Review around effective approaches to supporting the sector.

Robertson also revealed that Dame Sue Bruce has withdrawn from chairing the independent review of Creative Scotland on health grounds, with the process for appointing a successor underway.