Commenting on Arts Council England’s decision to extend the National Portfolio Investment Programme to 2028, SOLT & UK Theatre Co-CEO Claire Walker said:
“We welcome Arts Council England’s decision to extend the current round of National Portfolio Investment Programme to 2028 but, at a time of significant challenge for our sector, their delay reflects a concerning lack of strategic foresight.
“We recognise the complexities of the current public funding landscape, particularly in light of the forthcoming Government Spending Review and the review of Arts Council England itself. It is therefore deeply regrettable that the National Council has only now reached this decision, leaving organisations in an extended period of uncertainty.
“Moreover, this extension effectively precludes any new applicants from joining the National Portfolio or any opportunity for organisations to have their funding allocation re-assessed. Organisations have already made substantial preparations for the now-abandoned June deadline.
“Under this extension, National Portfolio Organisations will be expected to operate under funding agreements based on applications submitted in May 2022 until 2028 – an extraordinary situation that raises serious concerns about the sustainability of current funding structures.
“While the 1.61% funding increase is welcome, it remains below inflation – an especially pressing challenge given the escalating financial pressures on theatres, including the substantial rise in National Insurance contributions. Chronic underinvestment remains at the root of many of the issues facing our sector.
“Arts Council England plays a critical role as an arms-length body and national strategic funder. We therefore welcome an independent review that will not only examine the need for renewed public investment but also assess how the organisation’s leadership can best deliver the long-term, strategic funding solutions our sector so urgently requires.”
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