Working Group updates
Workstream 1: CA Economic & Social ambitions
The group met on 25th March. Ellen McAdam was nominated as Chair with Ammo Talwar as deputy, and Jerrel Jackson as observer/assistant. The group initially struggled with the scope provided. Adam gave a summary of the three options that the Board may want to work on: regional events (CWG, City of Culture), place (Towns Fund, Towns Centre Task Force), and environment (#WM2041). However, the Chair requested a more holistic approach. The WMCA will facilitate a workshop to allow members of the working group to better understand the work of the CA so that a holistic approach can be applied.
The group recognised the overlapping nature of the work this group might do with other working groups.
The working group were keen that more detailed cultural asset mapping is undertaken, particularly in arterial areas and outside city centres.
Workstream 2: Funding & Resilience
Timothy put himself forward as Chair or Deputy, on the understanding that Andrew Lovett should be asked to Chair. Timothy gave a summary of the issues identified in the working group meeting, including the importance of supporting freelancers, the limitations of furlough, and gaps in current support for organisations like charities. The group will develop a vision through and after the current work being undertaken during the COVID-19 crisis. Timothy welcomed interest from others who may want to join the group in light of the current circumstances.
Action:
- All members to provide a summary of their current position to Salla by 30/03.
It was recognised that information gathering is important at this time, and that the experiences and insights of this group and Board allows the CA to produce a “single version of the truth” for the sector. Martin Sutherland provides an important conduit for the CLB into other forums to ensure that the support is accessible to everyone who needs it along the supply chains. Direct grant aid may help mitigate the impact of the seasonality of the cultural sector, as would a single point of access to support available.
Action:
- Salla to coordinate with Julia to provide coherent data by 01/04.
A summary of the position of cultural organisations could be co-ordinated between Culture Central and Julia Negus’ studies in Coventry.
Workstream 3: Leadership, entrepreneurship & engagement
This working group is yet to meet. A date is being organised.
• Event Group
This group is scheduled to meet on April 1st, and may focus on how to support the relaunching of the sector once the crisis has passed.