It’s a real pleasure to be writing my first column as Suffolk County Council’s new Cabinet Member for Communities and to be able to share some good news.
Our £500,000 Culture Project Fund is open again for its second year. The fund supports arts and museum projects of all sizes across Suffolk, helping creativity to thrive in our towns and villages.
As someone who has always been passionate about theatre, I’ve seen how powerful the arts can be in bringing people together. Whether it’s a local play, an exhibition, or a creative workshop, these projects can make a real difference to people’s confidence, wellbeing, and sense of belonging.
In its first year, the Culture Project Fund supported a wide range of projects, and it’s been brilliant to see what has been achieved. In Stowmarket, Jubilant brought together schools, artists and young performers in a youth-led celebration of local creativity. In Sudbury, Gainsborough’s House launched Pulling Prints, a free printmaking course for 18- to 25-year-olds. Over six months, participants are developing new skills, working with professional artists and preparing to exhibit their work at the Mill Tye Gallery.
But this fund isn’t just about young people, it’s for everyone. We’ve supported projects that reach adults from all backgrounds and communities. Future Female Society in Ipswich is running a podcast series with refugee women, giving them space to share their stories and connect with others. Eastern Angles is creating a new touring play exploring the teaching of sign language, while The HAL Company in Bury St Edmunds is developing a theatre piece with people who have experienced life after prison.
These projects show how culture can help people build confidence, learn new skills and feel part of something bigger. They also show how creative activity contributes to other important goals improving wellbeing, strengthening local economies and supporting inclusion across Suffolk.
Applications for the second year of the fund are now open, with grants available for projects large and small. Whether you’re part of a community group, a museum, a local arts organisation or a creative freelancer, we’d love to hear your ideas.
By investing in culture, we’re investing in Suffolk’s communities. These projects remind us that creativity isn’t just about performance or exhibitions it’s about people coming together, learning from one another and celebrating what makes this county such a great place to live.
For more information or to apply, visit www.suffolk.gov.uk/cultureprojectfund.
