Agenda item

To consider a series of key performance indicators to measure the effectiveness of the Cultural Strategy.

The Culture and Leisure Overview and Scrutiny Committee had agreed to receive six monthly updates on the progress and delivery of the Action Plan within the Cultural Strategy.  During the debate at the meeting held on 13 June 2023, it had been agreed a series of draft key performance indicators would be presented for consideration at a future meeting of the Committee, which would go on to form the basis of the six-monthly updates.  At a meeting of Cabinet on 11 July 2023, the Cultural Strategy (2023 to 2026) was formally adopted as the key strategic document to underpin the delivery of cultural activity across South Kesteven.

A series of key performance indicators have been drafted for consideration.

The key performance indicators were to be updated at six monthly intervals to demonstrate progress with the implementation of the Cultural Strategy.  In addition to sharing any highlights or successes, it was equally important to bring to Members’ attention any areas or workstreams which had proved more challenging.  A further report was to be presented to the Culture and Leisure Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 30 November 2023 which would provide information on the wider performance of the Council’s Arts Service.

One of the key objectives of the Cultural Strategy was to widen the participation and reach of the Council’s arts service, ensuring accessibility for all.  To support this ambition, it was proposed a ‘Pay it Forward’ scheme be introduced.  Pay it Forward schemes had been successfully introduced nationally as a fundraising initiative, the resulting funds being used to enable local residents, including children and families, to attend cultural events for free.

As the free usage is fully covered by donations, the free participation will not directly impact the income of the performers, workshop leaders and touring companies. This is extremely important given the impact of COVID-19 and the associated recovery period on the livelihoods of those engaged in the arts. Free usage would be available across all three of the Council’s artistic venues (Guildhall Arts Centre, Stamford Arts Centre and the Bourne Corn Exchange). Activity would not be limited to live performances and could include films, workshops and other interactive sessions.

During discussion, Members raised the following points:

·            The report was welcomed, especially around collaboration and partnership.  Culture arises from the communities.

·            Was it possible that local businesses could support the ‘Pay it Forward’ Scheme?  The Council should encourage all the support that it could and aim to encourage all demographics to enjoy arts and culture.

·            Rural communities with weaker transport links were a barrier and prevented some senior members of the community from travelling into the towns.

·            Were the Council still able to access funds from the Lottery Scheme?  Such funds could support the Pay it Forward Scheme?

The Assistant Director of Culture and Leisure informed Members that the Council supported the rural touring scheme which provided high quality artistic performances in local village halls.

The Director of Growth and Culture confirmed the team would look into the availability of Lottery funds and report back to Members of the Committee.

It was proposed, seconded and AGREED that the Culture and Leisure Overview and Scrutiny Committee:

a)         Considered the draft Key Performance Indicators, suggesting amendments or additions.

b)         Agreed the final version of the Key Performance Indictors will form part of formerly agreed six monthly updates on the implementation of the Cultural Strategy.

c)         Supported the introduction of a Pay it Forward Scheme across the Council’s Arts and Cultural venues.