A city-wide programme is celebrating the impact of its first year of bringing culture and creativity to the heart of the community.
In Worcester, the Local Voices, Creative Choices scheme has delivered three new festivals, supported 142 creatives, and engaged more than 2,800 residents.
The project is led by eight city partners: Severn Arts, Scala, Worcester Mela, University of Worcester, Heart of Worcestershire College, Worcester Community Trust, Worcester City Council, and Worcestershire County Council.
Elaine Knight, programme director, said: “The programme has, in its first year, brought together Worcester’s communities to celebrate and co-create, creating a strong sense of local pride and renewed positivity, as well as delivering a festival programme that appeals to different ages and communities.
“We are also particularly pleased to see the positive impact the programme is having on Worcester’s creative sector through supporting emerging creatives, building their confidence and skills for the future.”
Worcester Mela Threads of Unity (Image: Rachel Jones)
Worcester has enjoyed three new festivals launched in the first year – Bridges of Light by Severn Arts, Scala Festival of Play, and Worcester Mela’s Threads of Unity.
More than 90 installations, performances, and activities have been delivered across the city, with research suggesting this work has increased feelings of togetherness, confidence, and joy among participants.
More than 90 per cent of visitors said they would attend another event or festival.
More than 140 students from the University of Worcester and Heart of Worcestershire College took part in a skills development programme, with access to professionals and learning opportunities here in the city building skills for future employment.
Worcester residents shared positive feedback, with one saying of the events “It was truly inspiring to see Worcester so full of life – alive with laughter, smiles and the joyful footsteps of little ones exploring alongside their adults.”
Others described “a wonderful child-friendly event with a great atmosphere” and another that it was “uniting the community”.
The festivals will return, and there are plans to provide further opportunities for students during the next academic year.
The programme is funded by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
Further details are available at www.severnarts.org.uk/local-voices-creative-choices.
