AN emergency campaign has been launched by Campaign for the Arts to reverse a 10% cut in Creative Scotland’s government, declaring’ “A change of direction is urgently needed.”
Currently with 250,000 registered supporters, the online petition created by the group demands the Scottish Government to “pull Scotland’s cultural sector back from the brink” when the budget is established.
Aswell as financial struggles as a result of the pandemic, factors such as reduced audiences, the effect of Brexit, surging costs and a lack of increase in funding causes for investment in the arts to ensure a “sustainable future” for performers, companies and venues.
The Government revealed a £7 million cut for Creative Scotland in December prompting warnings it may be forced to cut funding for almost 60 companies and organisations where long-term funding was usually provided.
Amid the requirement for a change in First Minister after Nicola Sturgeon’s resignation, Campaign for the Arts director Jack Gamble states: “We’re entering a period of change in Holyrood and it should extend to a rethink about the budget. Especially in this economic climate, the implications are devastating for cultural organisations and the communities they serve.”
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