Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, if she will take steps to support community orchestras in a) Newcastle-under-Lyme and b) Staffordshire.

Through Arts Council England’s 2023–26 National Portfolio Investment Programme, more funding is reaching orchestral organisations in more parts of the country than ever before, with around £65 million of public investment each year supporting 139 music organisations.

In Staffordshire, since 2023, the Stoke-on-Trent Festival has received £186,000 through two grants to expand classical performances and music education. In addition, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, English Symphony Orchestra and Orchestra of the Swan, all supported by Arts Council England (ACE), tour in Staffordshire, while the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Music Education Hub supports young musicians. These investments benefit communities across both Newcastle-under-Lyme and Staffordshire.

ACE’s National Lottery Project Grants provide funding to support artists, cultural organisations and community groups to deliver creative and cultural activity. The programme is open to eligible organisations, including community orchestras in both Newcastle-under-Lyme and Staffordshire, providing opportunities to secure funding for performances, audience development, education and community engagement projects.