Arts Council England have released a new report this month, entitled ‘The value of arts and culture to people and society – an evidence review’,that undertakes quantitative and qualitative studies into the value of arts and culture to society, helping raise the profile of culture as a strategic resource.
The evidence review highlights several points likely to be of interest to IHBC members, under the themes of society, education, health and wellbeing and economy:
- 10 million visits to the UK involved engagement in arts and culture in 2011
- Participation in arts and culture can reduce social exclusion
- £753.8 million was added to the Liverpool economy through the 2008 Capital of Culture celebrations
- Britain’s cultural and heritage attractions generate £4.5 billion of spend annually, sustaining over 100,000 jobs
- 60% of people are more likely to report good health if they have attended a cultural place or event in the last 12 months
Arts Council England are encouraging the public to contribute further to the debate and comment on the review via Twitter using the hashtag #artsculturevalue or their account @ace_national
