Arts Council England gains support in the sector

The arts sector is increasingly satisfied with the work of Arts Council England (ACE), according to its latest stakeholder survey. But the 1,000 respondents, who included individuals from funded organisations, artists and policymakers, used the survey to shine a light on issues with transparency.

Almost eight in ten view ACE favourably and the percentage that would speak highly of it to others has risen to 64% from 59% in 2013. The researchers believe relationships between ACE and those it funds have stabilised following the restructuring of recent years, which has seen ACE significantly reduce its staff numbers. Responses were most positive from those working in the children and young people sector and museums, while relationships are less good with individuals and those working in local authorities, the majority of whom would like more frequent contact with ACE.

Just 54% of respondents said they believe funding is awarded in a fair and transparent way, and researchers concluded: “Stakeholders clearly feel that the Arts Council could do more to provide clear evidence in support of investment decisions.” Grants for the Arts applicants are significantly less likely to see funding processes as transparent than National Portfolio Organisations. Only two in five think ACE’s decisions are informed by sound evidence and a third believe the application process is bureaucratic and prohibitive.

Stakeholders’ top priorities for ACE going forward are making the case for investment in the arts and distributing its own funds in a more geographically balanced way. They would also like to see ACE become more creative and collaborative.