The programme puts culture in the hands of the local community.
Culture in Common has been awarded £1 Million as part of Arts Council England’s largest ever Creative People and Places (CPP) Portfolio, which sees £42 million invested in 45 programmes from 2026–29, to deliver more grassroots-led cultural experiences in areas across England where involvement in arts and culture is below the national average.
The news means we’ll be able to continue the work started in 2022, to connect residents of the New Forest through inclusive arts and cultural activities. Since the beginning we’ve been supporting an events programme developed by local people, for local people.
CPPs bring together community, grassroots and cultural organisations as partners to take the lead in choosing, creating and taking part in creative and cultural activities. CPPs are empowering local people to pursue the art they want, where they live.
Programme Director of Culture in Common Jacqui Ibbotson said “We’ve already got big plans with our partners in the New Forest over next three years. We’ll be continuing to bring professional performances to communities, to engage people of all backgrounds and ages in experiences right on their doorstep.
“In December Luke Jerram’s Lullaby will ring out from community cycle rides in 3 towns in the Forest and we will soon be announcing the exciting new commission of a mobile arts centre. There’ll be environment projects with young people, creative health events and we’ll keep supporting arts and crafts workshops where everyone can get involved. Everything will be tailored to what New Forest residents tell us they want to see for their community”
This funding is made possible thanks to National Lottery players. Every National Lottery ticket purchased generates money for good causes and enables people in villages, towns, and cities up and down the country to get access to cultural experiences where they live.
Phil Gibby, South West Area Director, Arts Council England said “At Arts Council England, we believe that local communities are the experts when it comes to shaping the cultural life of the places where they live and work. That’s why, over the next three years, we’re investing £2.5m of National Lottery funding in three South West projects that will see arts organisations and partners work directly with communities to deliver creativity on people’s doorsteps.
“From an initiative in Gosport exploring the town’s history, to a first-of-its-kind cultural assembly in North Somerset, and Culture in Common’s ongoing work with communities in the New Forest, these projects will bring new creative opportunities across our region, and I look forward to seeing the difference they make.”
Cllr Dan Poole, NFDC Portfolio Holder for Community, Safety, and Wellbeing, said “We’re delighted that this funding has been awarded to Culture in Common, bringing an exciting opportunity to enhance our district through inclusive arts and cultural activities. Creative experiences bring people together and enrich the places we live, and we look forward to working together with our local partners to provide opportunities that inspire and engage our community.”
Culture in Common is hosted by Energise Me, and managed by a consortium of partners including Folio, New Forest District Council, New Forest National Park Authority and The Handy Trust.
Find out what’s on across the Forest here! Want to get involved? Find out how to here!
