The NCA (National Campaign for the Arts) have recently launched a major, new campaign: I Value the Arts! www.ivaluethearts.org.uk has already captured the support of thousands of members of the public, artists, arts sector workers etc and invites as many peolpe as possible to sign up and pledge their support for the arts. This campaign aims to give everyone a chance to show decision-makers the importance of arts provision to local communities.

Message from the NCA
Three quarters of the adult population attend or participate in arts activities every year and an even higher proportion of young people. At a time of recession, more and more people are turning to the arts and culture. Reduced opportunities to take part in the arts could have a major impact on the quality of people’s lives and the vibrancy of their communities. As the Government is encouraging us all to get engaged and create a ‘Big Society’, we believe it is important for those people who care about the arts to get involved in the decision-making about what their communities will look like. This campaign gives everyone who cares a chance to have their voice heard and collectively show that the arts provide a valued public service.

We encourage all members to register their details on our new website: www.ivaluethearts.org.uk. You will then be kept in touch with plans that could affect the arts nationally and in your area, with practical suggestions on what you can do to strengthen the case for the arts. Don’t forget to remind colleagues to do the same!

Promotion of the campaign is reliant on supporters encouraging others to sign up – so your active support is vital and we therefore encourage all members to:

1. Link to the campaign (www.ivaluethearts.org.uk/) from your website or blog
2. Promote the campaign in your emails
3. Print and display campaign posters
4. Follow the @IValueTheArts on Twitter and encourage your followers to do the same

If you are part of an organisation operating in the sector you might also like to:

1. Add the campaign logo to your print
2. Put an advert for the campaign in your brochure / programme / catalogue
3. Let people sign up at your box office / information desk
4. Display ‘postcards’ around your venue
5. JOIN THE CAMPAIGN – visit the website www.ivaluethearts.org.uk for a range of resources, images, logos, web buttons and suggestions for action.

For further information on the NCA see www.artscampaign.co.uk