Have your say on culture and creativity in Cheltenham in new survey

Cheltenham people are being asked for their views as part of the town’s biggest ever survey into culture and creativity. Running until 12 August.

The Cheltenham Culture Board survey asks people what cultural activities they enjoy most and what would they like to do more of. It also asks about what could be done to support people to engage more in cultural and creative activities in the future.

The survey also asks for feedback on the board’s draft strategy, including the board’s proposed vision for culture, and a set of six big ideas where the board hope to take action. All the feedback will help inform the board’s draft Culture Strategy. 

In addition, people who work or volunteer creatively as an artist or practitioner in the arts and cultural sector in Cheltenham are being asked for their views via a separate survey. The survey for creative practitioners asks about what can be done to ensure Cheltenham maximise the opportunities from its thriving arts and cultural sector.

Cllr Max Wilkinson, cabinet member economic development, culture, tourism and wellbeing said: “Culture and creativity are the lifeblood of our town. Cultural events are hugely important to bringing people together and contribute so much to Cheltenham’s tourism offer, people’s wellbeing and the economy too. 

“There’s much more work to be done to secure the longer-term success of our cultural events, organisations and buildings. We also want to ensure more of our community can benefit from cultural and creative events. That’s why it’s important that everyone with an interest in culture takes part in this survey.”

Ali Mawle, chair of Cheltenham Culture Board and co-CEO of Cheltenham Festivals, said: ‘’The new culture board has made significant headway in building a strong alliance across Cheltenham’s cultural and creative communities. There is excitement about working together to make culture and creativity central to the economic and social recovery of Cheltenham so that everyone has the chance to thrive.”

The survey runs until 12 August; responses will then be collated and used to help shape the final culture strategy and action plan that will go to Cabinet in autumn 2022. Click here to have your say now. 

---

Cheltenham has several cultural highlights throughout the year that make it special, see what is happening near you this this summer and beyound with our helpful Major Festivals and Events in Cheltenham guide.