Equity has launched a new, cross-party network for local councillors who are supporting the arts in local government.
The event took place on the morning of Sunday 4 October at Green Party conference, with councillors from across the party attending to hear more about the network.
Equity’s General Secretary, Paul W. Fleming, spoke about Equity’s work across the performing arts and entertainment industries, and highlighted how important the arts are to local economies, generating significant returns on every £1 spent. He emphasised the important role of local government in championing arts and entertainment workers and supporting local creative ecosystems.
Green Party Deputy Leader and local councillor, Rachel Millward, emphasised how important networks such as this one are to the work of local councillors. She spoke about the sizeable impact that local councillors can have in their areas from her own experience supporting cultural initiatives in local government.
Local government has a vital role to play in sustaining creative communities, with local government funding often outstripping other arts funding in local communities, meaning it plays a crucial role in sustaining artistic and cultural activities and employment. However, Equity’s analysis ahead of the 2026 local and devolved elections found that local authority funding for arts and culture across Britain has fallen by 55% since 2010. “Every area should have a thriving creative ecosystem, and Equity wants to work with local councillors to make that happen”, said Paul W Fleming.
About the network
Equity’s local councillor network is a cross-party network for councillors who have a responsibility for, or an interest in, supporting the arts and entertainment from local government.
Joining the network will give local councillors access to regular updates from Equity, including relevant industrial and policy developments, ideas for how councillors can support arts and entertainment workers in their area, and opportunities to connect with others working on these issues in local government.
If you are an interested local councillor, please join the network mailing list.
Join the network
