Arts and Heritage Cuts Report

REPORT TO:

CABINET 24 JANUARY 2011

AGENDA ITEM:

8

SUBJECT:

ARTS & HERITAGE PROPOSALS

LEAD OFFICER:

Tom Jeffrey, Executive Director Of Community Services

CABINET MEMBER

Councillor Sara Bashford, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Culture and Sport

WARDS:

All

CORPORATE PRIORITY/POLICY CONTEXT: The provision of the Council’s Arts & Heritage Service contributes to the following corporate priorities: • Safer, stronger and more sustainable communities • Achieving better outcomes for children and young people • Promoting economic growth and prosperity • Improving health and wellbeing • Improving the environment • Delivering high quality public services and improving value for money FINANCIAL SUMMARY: The Council is considering different ways to make efficiencies. This paper proposes reductions to the arts & heritage service budget in light of the Comprehensive Spending Review. If the recommendations in this report are accepted it will result in a reduction in spending of £1.482k.

Forward plan key decision reference number: 985 This is a Key Decision as defined in the Council’s Constitution. The decision may be implemented from 1300 hours on the 5th working day after it is made, unless the decision is referred to the Scrutiny & Overview Committee by the requisite number of Councillors.

1.

RECOMMENDATION

The Leader of the Council has delegated to the Cabinet the power to make the decisions set out in the recommendations below: 1.1

Having considered the responses received from the public consultation and the Equalities Impact Assessment undertaken in respect of impact on the Arts and Heritage service of the proposed spending reduction, agree implementation of the proposals for the reductions in spending on the Arts and Heritage service as detailed in paragraph 3.4 of the report.

2.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

2.1

This report seeks agreement to reduce spending on the arts and heritage service (the Service) provision in light of the Comprehensive Spending Review.

2.2

Following the public consultation on the five options detailed below, and an Equalities Impact Assessment undertaken in respect of the proposals to reduce spending, this report recommends selection of a level of saving of £1,482k as per Option 4. In addition, the local studies and archives, a museum function, and an arts programme for people with learning disabilities and disadvantaged young people would be retained.

3.

DETAIL

3.1

Summary of options

3.3.1 On 15 November 2010, Cabinet approved a public consultation on the following options for the Service (Minute A134/10):

SERVICES AFFECTED Croydon Summer Festival & Mela Museum of Croydon (main galleries and collection) Museum of Croydon (Riesco Gallery) Museum of Croydon (Exhibition Gallery)

One X 9

Two X 9

OPTION Three Four X X conservation 9

Five 9 9

only

9 9

9

9

9

reduced

Reduce d

X

9 9

Space C and Café Galleries Museum education programme

9 9

9

X

reduced

X X

9 9

Local studies library and archive service

9

reduced

Reduce d Reduce d

archive only

9

Clocktower Arts (theatre, music, events) David Lean Cinema Clocktower arts participation activities for young people, people with learning disabilities, refugees and schools.

Borough-wide arts events and activities (e.g.

Croydon celebrates black history) Braithwaite, Stanley, Canterbury, Selsdon halls community and event hire

9 9 9

9 X 9

X X X

X X X

9 9 9

9

reduced

Reduce d

X

9

9

9

X

X

9

£150k

£765k

£1.113m

£1.482m

zero

9 = service retained 3.2

SAVING X = service deleted

reduced = service reduced

Consultation findings

3.2.1 A summary of consultation findings is given in Appendix 1 of this report below.

3.2.2

The public consultation was conducted between 22 November 2010 and 6 January 2011. A range of methods were used to engage people in the consultation including: the use of an online and hard-copy questionnaire, delivery of workshop sessions and meetings with statutory bodies and funding partners. The local press also undertook a campaign in support of retaining services.

3.2.3 In total, 1,566 responses by individuals, or on behalf of groups, were received which represents 0.4% of the borough’s population, and constitutes a statistically valid sample. It is approximately 1% of service users and equivalent in size to the industry standard Active People survey conducted by Arts Council/Sport England.

3.2.4 The consultation included a substantial number of considered and well argued responses, which showed a sympathetic understanding of the council’s financial situation. It generated many innovative and helpful suggestions and options which have been included in the summary with officers’ comments in Appendix 1 of this report.

3.2.5 The consultation addressed four questions: • • • •

Of the five options which do you most and least recommend?

What impact would a reduction in arts and heritage services have on you as an individual or group?

Are there any parts of the service which you particularly value?

How could we do things differently to deliver these services in the current financial climate?

3.2.6 Not surprisingly, 45.7% of consultees chose Option 1 as their most recommended option, with the least recommended option being Option 4 (74.7%).

3.2.7 Over 93% of consultees indicated that a reduction in funding to the service would have a moderate or severe impact on them as individuals, or groups. Consultees indicated that there would be a negative impact on community cohesion, local pride, quality of life and perception of Croydon.

3.2.8 The consultation identified the Clocktower and David Lean Cinema, Museum of Croydon, Local Studies and Archives, and the Arts participation programme as areas of the service that were particularly valued.

3.2.9 A number of predominant themes emerged in response to the request for ideas for doing things differently e.g.: • Increase prices at the David Lean Cinema • Make greater use of volunteers across the service • Greater partnership working with local businesses

•

3.3

Charge an entrance fee for the Croydon Summer Festival and Mela

Key issues arising from the consultation

3.3.1 Museum of Croydon and the Heritage Lottery Fund 3.3.2 As part of the stakeholder consultation, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and its awarding body the National Heritage Memorial Fund (NHMF) were consulted.

3.3.3 An HLF grant of ÂŁ933.5k was awarded under a 25-year grant agreement to Croydon in June 2005 towards the redevelopment of the Museum of Croydon within the Clocktower building which opened less than five years ago in 2006. HLF have written to the council regarding their concerns about the future of the Museum of Croydon and protection of the value of their investment in the light of the Service proposals.

3.3.4 HLF recognises the difficult circumstances that the council is operating in, and the extent of the cuts it is having to make, but their clear preference is for the Museum of Croydon to remain open and continue in some form in what they perceive as its excellent service to Croydon residents.

3.3.5 At a time when the government has indicated that HLF and others will receive an increase in cultural funding via the National Lottery, HLF indicated their willingness to build on the fruitful relationship that it has had to date with the council as it recognises the strategic importance of Croydon and the outer London boroughs.

3.3.6 HLF has indicated that in relation to its 25-year grant agreement with the council, the majority of which is still to run, any recommendation to make a change to the Museum of Croydon by the council will need to be agreed by HLF's Board or London Committee at their next meeting.

HLF will take a view about whether to agree a change in the Approved Purposes of the grant to the council, and/or to require repayment of all, or part of the grant, depending on the nature and extent of the changes.

3.3.7 Discussions to date with HLF have progressed well and officers are working closely to find a solution on a revised and reduced museum function which meets HLF requirements within current budget cuts targets.

3.3.8 There has been strong representation from local residents, education providers, regional and national bodies about the significant value of the Museum of Croydon, and its renowned approach to community engagement and participation, as well as its significant partnership with

the British Museum, Museum of London, Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Tate; and its outstanding exhibition programme.

3.3.9 Local Studies & Archives 3.3.10 There has been a large scale and consistent message regarding the importance of retaining the Local Studies & Borough Archive in some form, with substantial representation from service users, scholars and local history societies.

3.3.11 The Borough Archive is unique. It is a designated place of deposit for the National Archive, and it contains significant loans from individuals and societies and provides an important resource for such societies, local businesses, the council (Freedom of Information Act (FOI) requests), and national and regional public bodies. Any hiatus in service provision would keep the existing archive but would fundamentally damage the integrity of the resource which would quickly become moribund.

3.3.12 Young people and disadvantaged groups 3.3.13 There has been strong representation by, and on behalf of, young people, and by people with learning disabilities of all ages, and their representative agencies, about the intrinsic value and unique offer of the Clocktower arts participation programme. There has been visible concern and distress at the potential loss of these services and the limited opportunity for replacement of such carefully crafted service and support for those involved.

3.3.14 Cultural facilities for older people 3.3.15 There has been substantial representation from users and local residents, many of whom are older, or elderly, about the importance of the David Lean Cinema and its dedicated cultural offer for older people in central Croydon. There is a perceived lack of alternatives.

3.4

Selected option

3.4.1 The selected option takes into account the following major contributory factors: • • • •

the consultation responses the council’s overall budget constraints partner and stakeholder priorities and responsibilities identified needs of significant disadvantaged groups (EqIA)

3.4.2 The selected is Option 4, with some amendments, forms the basis of the decision as follows: 3.4.3 Budget saving of £1.482k as per Option 4.

3.4.4 Deletion of the arts and heritage service as per Option 4.

3.4.5 Retained Local Studies & Archives with a value for money exercise conducted on its optimum operating model and opening hours, ensuring that there is no hiatus in the archive collection for future generations.

3.4.6 Retained museum function subject to negotiation with the HLF. 3.4.7 Retained arts participation programme for people with learning disabilities and young at risk (some elements of activity will be delivered through external funding).

3.4.8 Although the strong support for the David Lean Cinema is sympathetically recognised, no cost-effective option for retaining a 67seat stand alone cinema in the Clocktower is possible. However, discussion with the Fairfield Halls and local commercial cinema providers (e.g. Virgin Vue) will be undertaken to seek to source local art-house cinema provision, particularly for older people, where possible.

4.

CONSULTATION

4.1

Consultation has been carried out and is summarised above with further detail in the attached Appendix 1.

4.2

The options were also the subject of initial Equalities Impact Assessments (EqIA). Informed by the consultation, a full EqIA has been completed, and attached as Appendix 2 below.

4.3

The selected option will impact in the region of 28-29 FTE posts/32-33 staff directly. Consultation will take place with Trade Unions and staff and provision needs to be made for a period of up to 90 days because of the coincidental timing of potential redundancies in other departments. If consultation is concluded by agreement earlier, any dismissals by reason of redundancy must not occur before 90 days has elapsed. The council’s redundancy and reorganisation protocols will be followed under advice from HR.

5.

FINANCIAL AND RISK ASSESSMENT CONSIDERATIONS 1

Revenue and Capital consequences of report recommendations Current Financial Year 2010/11

M.T.F.S – 3 year Forecast

2011/12

2012/13

2013/14

Revenue Budget available Expenditure

£’000

£’000

£’000

£’000

2,924

2,924

2,131

1,148

Income Effect of Decision from Report Expenditure

0

(499)

Previously identified savings

0

(294)

Remaining Budget

2,924

2,131

(983)

0

0

0

1,148

1,148

2 The Effect of the Decision The decision to implement Option 4 will produce savings of £1.482m after taking into account redundancy and decommissioning costs. Of this total £499k will be achieved in 2011/12 and a further £983k in 2012/13.

3 Risks As detailed in 3.3.1 above, there is a risk that the council will need to repay some or the entire £933.5k HLF grant for the Museum of Croydon.

4 Options All options have been considered as part of the consultation process.

Approved by: Richard Simpson, Director Financial Services

6.

COMMENTS OF THE SOLICITOR TO THE COUNCIL

6.1

The Council Solicitor comments that insofar as these proposals relate to a number of different services, even without a statutory duty to do so, it is important to show that the council has fully considered the responses to the consultation and demonstrate that it had sufficient information about the effect of the recommended option so as to make a proper and hence rational decision.

6.2

Further, the Local Government Act 1999 which sets out the duty of Best Value means local authorities must show that their services have been influenced by residents’ views, and provide the best possible value.

6.3

In relation to the service as it provides participation in activities for those toward whom the council has an equalities duty, while the council is entitled to take into account the pressure on resources it is also important to ensure that those duties are fully considered and exercised with vigour and an open mind as well as taking into account guidance from the Equalities and Human Rights Commission, which officers have considered in the preparation of this Report and the council’s own recent Equality Strategy.

6.4

A failure to do this may lead to a successful challenge to any eventual decision on that basis alone.

Approved by: Gabriel MacGregor, Head of Legal Services (Corporate) on behalf of the Council Solicitor and Monitoring Officer

7.

HUMAN RESOURCES IMPACT

7.1

Numbers of staff are likely to be made redundant, and the department must follow the council’s restructure policy, in particular the duty to consult.

As such many of the options in this proposal will require specific input from HR&OD and adequate resources should be planned.

Approved by: Heather Daley, Interim Head of HR Consultancy, on behalf of the director, Human Resources & Organisational Development

8.

CUSTOMER IMPACT

8.1

A reduction in service provision will have a direct impact on customers, and this will be clearly communicated to customers (e.g. by signposting alternative services). Customer input will continue to be valued in designing retained services.

9.

EQUALITIES IMPACT

9.1

A full EqIA has been conducted on the recommended option, and is circulated separately at Appendix 2. It has utilised demographic desk research and the responses to the full public consultation exercise described in Appendix 1.

9.2

The assessment has identified that Croydon has the largest population

of children and young people and will also see a greater proportion of older people in future years. Croydon also has a higher proportion of residents who are from BME groups than the overall pattern for London (40% compared to 35%). Croydon also has a larger than average proportion of people from a Muslim and Hindu faith compared to England.

9.3

The assessment has identified the main groups impacted potential are children and young people, older people, adults and younger people with disabilities, racial and faith groups, and LGBT groups.

9.4

In recommending of the preferred option, the council has identified a number of mitigating actions: •

Retain the Local Studies & Archives: older people, and racial and faith groups.

•

Retained museum function to be negotiated with the HLF: children and young people, older people, adults and younger people with disabilities, racial and faith groups, and LGBT groups.

•

Retained arts participation programme: children and young people, adults and younger people with disabilities.

•

Potential alternative cinema provision at the Fairfield Halls/local commercial cinema providers: older people.

10.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND DESIGN IMPACT

10.1

There is no direct environmental and design impact arising from this report.

11.

CRIME AND DISORDER REDUCTION IMPACT

11.1

There is no direct crime and disorder reduction impact arising from this report.

12.

RISK ASSESSMENT

12.1

A risk assessment will be conducted on the selected option and management of closures.

12.2

The proposed option recommends retention of a small museum service, to be agreed by the HLF who have indicated a willingness to work with the council on this project. However, failure to reach agreement with HLF on the nature and level of museum service provided may result in a requirement to repay all or part of the HLF grant for the development of the Museum of Croydon, with a capital cost to the council of c. £1m.

13.

HUMAN RIGHTS IMPACT

13.1

There is no direct human rights impact arising from this report.

14.

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION/DATA PROTECTION CONSIDERATIONS

14.1

Responses to the consultation are summarised in this report and copies have been made available prior to this meeting in the Members’ Room. However, in accordance with the Data Protection Act, personal details of those who responded have not been disclosed.

CONTACT OFFICER:

Pauline Scott-Garrett, Director Culture and Sport Ext. 67509

Background papers:

Cabinet report Arts and Heritage Options 15 November 2010

APPENDIX 1 – CONSULTATION FINDINGS AND ANALYSIS 1

Introduction

1.1

Background to the consultation

1.1.1 A report was taken to the Cabinet meeting on 15 November 2010 outlining the following 5 options for the future provision of the arts and heritage service: • • • • •

Option 1: Cease Croydon Summer Festival Option 2: Reduce to small-scale arts and heritage service Option 3: Reduce substantially museum, archive and arts Option 4: Minimal museum management and archive Option 5: Do nothing

1.1.2 At this meeting Cabinet agreed to commence formal public consultation on these options for the future of the Service.

1.1.3 The consultation set out to: • • •

Assess the likely effect and impact of any proposed changes on service users so that these issues could be properly considered as part of the council’s decision making process Ensure those being consulted knew enough about the options under consideration and the potential impact on the service before a final decision was made Allow reasonable and sufficient time for those being consulted to put their views to the council

1.1.4 The consultation ran for 6 weeks from Monday 22 November 2010 to Thursday 6 January 2011 1.2.

Report objectives

1.2.1 This Appendix provides a summary and analysis of the consultation responses received and identifies the key issues and themes raised throughout the process as part of the consideration of the options by Cabinet before a decision is made.

1.2.2 Copies of this Appendix can be downloaded from www.croydon.gov.uk/leisure/arts/ 1.3

Methodology

1.3.1 The consultation was designed to reach a wide number of consultees, incorporating different methodologies to facilitate responses.

1.3.2 A comprehensive list of stakeholder consultees was developed. These included; local residents; service users and customers including hirers

and leaseholders; schools; local groups and societies; local arts and community organizations; arts practitioners; and national sector bodies including Museum, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA), National Heritage Memorial Fund (NHMF), English Heritage and Arts Council England.

1.3.3 The consultation methodology was designed around a core questionnaire which was developed in order to provide a standard format in which individuals could submit their views. It was made available in a number of formats including hard copy, electronic and through an online Surveymonkey system.

1.3.4 The questionnaire asked four questions: • • • •

Of the five options which do you most and least recommend?

What impact would a reduction in arts and heritage services have on you as an individual or group?

Are there any parts of the service which you particularly value?

How could we do things differently to deliver these services in the current financial climate?

1.3.5 These questions also formed the basis of workshops with key stakeholder groups: staff; people with learning disabilities; young people; and users of the Local Studies & Archives service.

1.3.6 A number of respondents chose to communicate directly by letter or email.

2.

Analysis

2.1

Summary

2.1.3 In total, 1,566 responses were received, including questionnaires, letters and emails and participants in workshops. Overall these responses were considered and well argued, which showed a sympathetic understanding of the council’s financial situation and generated many innovative and helpful suggestions and options.

2.2

Analysis of question 1 – Of the five options which do you most and least recommend

2.2.1 Statistical review Within the questionnaire survey, a total of 1,506 consultees responded to this question. 45.7% of consultees chose option 1 as their most recommended option followed by option 5 with 27.2%.

74.7% of consultees chose option 4 as their least preferred option.

Question 1 - Of the five options proposed which do you most and least recommend?

Answer One Two Three Four Five Options Most 45.7 21.5 4.1% 1.6% 27.2% recommended % % Least 4.3% 1.4% 3.6% 74.7% 15.9% recommended answered question 1506 skipped question 60

2.3

Analysis of Question 2 – What impact would a reduction in arts and heritage services have on you as an individual or group?

2.3.1 Statistical review There was a total of 1,521 questionnaire responses to this question.

Some 52.7% of consultees felt that a reduction in the arts and heritage services would have a “severe” impact on them as an individual or group. A further 40.3% of consultees felt there would be a moderate impact.

Question 2 - What impact would a reduction in arts and heritage services have on you as an individual or group?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Little or none 7% 106 Moderate 40.3% 613 Severe 52.7% 802 answered question 1521 skipped question 45

2.3.2 Comments Additional comments were raised regarding the impact of a reduction in funding. These comments broadly relate to the following themes: community cohesion and pride; perception of Croydon; and children and young people and adults with disabilities.

2.3.3 Community cohesion, pride and quality of life There was a clear expression of the arts and heritage service’s role in promoting strong community cohesion, a sense of belonging and pride and a way of improving quality of life. Consultees felt that Croydon is a very diverse borough and an excellent representation of cultures living side by side. The projects delivered by the arts and heritage service are well respected, leading

examples of community engagement work.

Sample quotes “They provide an invaluable service – vital for learning, well-being, promoting understanding of diverse cultures and therefore greater tolerance and respect for one another, and developing creativity. Our lives, our culture and our sense of local and national pride are enriched by the arts and heritage”.

“Arts and Heritage are vital to developing a sense of community and community participation. We need the arts, cinema even more in tough times to help keep spirits up. It would be a great loss if these essential spaces and services are closed” “The arts are an important part of community cohesion and happiness.

It is inexcusable to deny the basic provision of culture to all in a free and inclusive way. The scrapping of the summer festival and Mela will impact greatly on the thousands of people who annually went to enjoy a wide range of dance and music from communities that are already under represented and rarely celebrated in such a scale.”

“At a time when people (myself included) are increasingly concerned about their jobs, housing and finances, the arts provide an incredibly important function – raising morale, keeping people going, ensuring that economic depression does not create a selfish, individualistic society in which every person is out for themselves, as could so easily happen, but works together as a community. In my opinion, maintaining a strong, free arts service throughout the recession is almost the only way to ensure solidarity, community and maintenance of the idea that life is about far more than monetary gain!”

Workshop participants discussed the role of the service in creating outreach projects which supported specific vulnerable and hard-toreach communities. This outreach work is often seen in the sector as best practice examples of community engagement.

2.3.4 Perception of Croydon There was a clear message from respondents that Croydon has a major perception issue with it being seen as a “concrete, soulless place”. The reputation of the arts and heritage service was seen as one of the few things that tackles these perceptions and puts Croydon in a positive light.

Sample quotes “Croydon is already seen as a 'cultural wasteland', these cuts would simply confirm outside perceptions of the town, reducing investment as well as robbing the local community of the few cultural outlets we

have.”

“I have two children and one of the reasons we love living in Croydon has been the excellent arts, heritage and culture provision. If you want to cement Croydon's current reputation of being a cultural wasteland then this is the way to go about it. The summer festival and Mela is a brilliant event that really brings the community together and makes us proud to live in Croydon. If you cut all arts spending you will make Croydon very depressing – all there will be is empty office blocks and the Home Office. Deep Joy. All of the services enrich the lives of Croydon residents and should be valued for this rather than for what money they do/do not bring in. The Museum of Croydon is giving children a real sense of the history of the town they are growing up in, rather than just seeing it as the run down, concrete wasteland that people like to portray it as”.

“Croydon needs its museum and heritage service. Of all places, Croydon requires this service that speaks eloquently of its culture in the face of negative perceptions of the place. Removing the Clocktower would be like ripping the cultural heart out of Croydon, there is no private sector alternative and community cultural energies are dissipated and disassociated across the borough. Having a museum and heritage service that includes and represents everyone, something which Croydon is excels in and is internationally renowned for, inculcates a sense of belonging, citizenship and social responsibility which has far reaching benefits for the borough. A true community museum like Museum of Croydon is a living entity, a manifestation of the Big Society” Workshop participants were concerned that Croydon’s Vision with its ambition to be a “creative city” would be harder to deliver without the contribution of the arts and heritage service. Croydon is much maligned as a cultural desert and cuts in arts and heritage services conform to this stereotype. There was concern that without the expertise of the service and the advice and support currently offered internally, additional pressure would be put on other areas of the council.

2.3.5 Children and young people The arts and heritage service offers a chance for children and young people to partake in positive activities and experiences that encourage social and personal development.

Sample quotes “The arts in general is constantly being cut back. Children are having very little influence of arts in their lives already, which is a shame as the arts help us to become better thinkers. The arts help us to express emotions that may be suppressed and allow us to give opinions and discuss them without fear of rejection”.

“As part of the IGNiTE music team and as an Ambassador I feel that this would affect me greatly. I have been involved with IGNiTE music for many years now and it has helped me develop as a person and become more confident in myself. It shows that young people are able to organise a large event and budget for it too. It also displays young people in a better light than they have previously been perceived, it gets us off the streets and mixing with different groups of young people, which in turn helps us to appreciate each other”.

“I joined IGNITE almost three years ago. I was failing 4/4 A-Levels at Croydon College and on a downwards spiral. Ignite helped me make sense of life. Showed me where my talents lie and how to use them. It kept me in college. I came out with 4 good A levels. It's helped me develop as an artist. Without it, I don't know where I could have ended up. I got the chance to perform, develop and have been offered other gigs since. I've also been offered jobs based on my experiences I gained through IGNITE. To know the impact it can have on young people like me, means I know how many lives are effectively SAVED. Save the Arts in Croydon. Save the Future of Croydon”.

Workshop participants commented that there were a lack of alternative spaces in central Croydon for young people without the Clocktower’s arts and heritage facilities. Young people demonstrate respect and a level of ownership of the building. The activities on offer provide an outlet for creative expression and a showcase for young people’s positive contribution to the community.

2.3.6 Adults with disabilities Consultees felt that the service had an excellent record of inclusion and involvement of disadvantaged groups, including people with learning disabilities. The exhibitions, projects, displays and educational programmes are to be proud of and should continually be supported.

Sample quotes “I work with adults with learning disabilities in Croydon and over the years many of the people I work with have grown so much and have found so much happiness through being part of The Club Soda team, The White Light Theatre Company or the media group. These projects have given people meaningful employment, helped develop a wide range of skills and have led to the development of many close friendships. This would be irreplaceable if funding was cut as would the wonderful Club Soda that provides such a fantastic night out for people that have such a limited range of options to safely and comfortably socialise and have fun in Croydon. Please do not cut the funding for these essential projects.”

“Council cuts would drastically impact on the lives of many hundreds of

people with learning disabilities who utilise the arts service for a wide number of reasons including a personal interest, a passion for the arts, for self-development and also the benefits to their well being. Two programmes in particular; IGNITE for young people aged 14-19 and Club Soda for people with learning disabilities are both well established, highly successful schemes based at Croydon Clocktower.

The impact of cutting Club Soda and its numerous activities would isolate a huge number of people with disabilities who rely on Club Soda as their only regular social interaction; this includes people in full-time care, supported living and people living independently. It would literally cut off people who participate in weekly activity; such as the committee, trainees on work experience, interns, participants learning DJ’ing, Media Team members who practice film-making and manage a website and also a number of talented performers who find opportunity with Club Soda to perform and guide others. It would also affect hundreds of people who attend the events Club Soda produce throughout the year”.

Workshop participants commented that the activities for people with learning disabilities provided at the Clocktower provide a safe environment for people to come together, develop new skills and reach their potential.

The 18 individuals who attended the workshop for people with learning disabilities put forward passionate and emotional views as to how the arts and heritage service positively impacts on their lives. It was clear from this workshop that the activities provided for adults with disabilities at the Clocktower are an invaluable resource that enables individuals to gain transferable skills that provide life changing experiences and routes into further training and work. There is no alternative creative provision for adults with disabilities in Croydon and therefore if cut would restrict many active participants.

The following is a sample of feedback given by individuals at the workshop: •

•

•

•

The night time activities provide a safe, friendly environment to go to at night. We have found it dangerous going to a standard nightclub.

I have a disability but have managed to learn music skills that I can pass onto people who are even less fortunate to myself.

Without these we may as well be back in institutions I’m angry and upset; this is not fair on those with disabilities.

What are we going to do? We don’t have anywhere else we feel safe to be. We will end up just sitting indoors Came here with no confidence. I made friends and became more confident. This is like a home to us and without it I’ll lose my confidence again.

• • • •

2.4

It bought me out of my shell, before I was sat at home doing nothing. This one night a week keeps me going.

This is good for carers as they can meet other careers and talk about their experiences It’s like a family I’ve never had. Losing this would break my heart Provides jobs to those disadvantaged who couldn’t hold them down elsewhere

Question 3 – Are there any parts of the service which you particularly value?

2.4.1 Statistical review A total of 1,525 consultees responded to this question. Consultees could choose as many or as few areas of the service in which they value.

The area of the service that was most valued was the Clocktower Arts and David Lean Cinema with 71.7%. This was followed by the Museum of Croydon (48%); Museum exhibitions (42.6%), Local Studies and Archives (42.5%) and Clocktower arts participation programme (40.4%).

Question 3 – Are there any parts of the service which you particularly value?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Museum of Croydon 48% 732 Museum exhibitions 42.6% 649 Museum education 31.6% 482 Riesco Gallery 18.8% 287 Local Studies & Archives 42.5% 648 Clocktower Arts and David Lean Cinema 71.7% 1093 Clocktower arts participation programme 40.4% 616 Croydon Summer Festival & Mela 26.4% 403 Borough wide arts events and activities 24.3% 370 (e.g. Croydon Celebrates Black History) Braithwaite, Stanley, Canterbury, Selsdon 26.2% 399 Halls community and event hire Other 226 answered question 1525 skipped question 41

2.4.2 Comments

Respondents commented on aspects of the Service particularly valued.

A sample of is given below: 2.4.3 Clocktower Arts & David Lean Cinema “The David Lean cinema is a true gem in Croydon and it means a great deal to me and many other people I know. I grew up in Sutton, a young film enthusiast, and the David Lean was integral in cementing my love of cinema and I don't believe I would be working in cinema now, had I not been a regular visitor in my teens. I felt so lucky that there was a local cinema with alternative programming that opened my eyes to different cultures around the world. Now 10 years on, as a Croydon resident, I still consider the David Lean a Croydon treasure and I think the town would be a much poorer place without it.”

“Clocktower has just reached its prime. Travesty that such crucial services are being reduced/removed. Must be other options that haven't been considered. Can't see any alternatives to provide such services. Recent programming has been exceptional. DLC only art house in whole of surrey! Surely Croydon needs a beacon of culture?!”

“I value the David Lean cinema because it has an interesting programming policy. It shows the sort of film that otherwise can only be seen travelling to London. It brings something unusual and distinctive to the Croydon arts scene. Without it would sadly be even easier to say that Croydon is just another suburban nowhere place, though with more empty offices and a more unpleasant general environment than most others. I have seen it suggested that it is mostly used by over 60s. so what? I am struck by the number of times I have been unable to go to a film because the showing is sold out.”

Workshop participants felt the David Lean Cinema offers older people a safe, stimulating environment that is not available elsewhere in central Croydon. Older people would have little reason to come in to the city centre if this cultural hub was removed.

2.4.4 Museum of Croydon “The Museum's education outreach service is outstanding. Engaging children in cultural heritage is a wonderful way of giving them a sense of community and broaden their horizons past their day-to-day lives.

Many of these children would be unaware of Croydon's arts and heritage services if it were not for these outreach services.”

“Croydon Museum is a lovely local museum with a very good reputation in the museum world which does valuable work with community groups and schools. A reduction of services would mean a community even further disengaged from culture and the arts. Quality museum education programmes can enrich the curriculum in a way that makes history come alive in the children’s hands, making it

tangible and relevant to their lives. The danger of such services being run by volunteers is that you loose the experience and expertise which makes a quality service - something which takes years to establish and moments to destroy. Please don't undo all the hard work of Croydon Museum staff. Please don't deprive the people in Croydon of what might be their only way to understand how their history is similar to other histories and stories told by the culturally diverse voices represented in the museum.”

“Museum of Croydon has been a key partner for Brent these last couple of years and we have come to value the partnership work and public benefit the dedicated team deliver - just the fact that they have been able to secure a significant British Museum loan for the people of Croydon should be something that is haled from the rooftops and celebrated. Be proud of your heritage Croydon, reduce the service if you have to but do not close it down.”

Workshop participants commented that the Museum of Croydon is a valuable resource which informs both local residents and visitors of the long and diverse history of the borough. It is especially important for the education of children, not only teaching them of local life and events in days past but also linking the importance of their heritage to the present day, by means of exhibitions and modern technology.

2.4.5 Local Studies and Archives “I am writing from a very particular perspective as a user of local studies and archives. This is a brilliant service with irreplaceable, knowledgeable staff. I am an academic who has used the archives extensively and published much Croydon material in my work. While in the library I have watched the staff at work. They provide a wonderful and sensitive service helping people discover their histories. People without histories are nobody (look how Mao Tse Tung was so keen to suppress history !) Croydon has a fine legacy in the provision of library services for all. To wreck this great legacy for what will - in the global pattern - be short term expediency will benefit nobody” “It is unthinkable to close the Local Studies Library totally. Every town /village has history which must be preserved one way or another. We must be proud of our heritage. How can anyone teach the youth of today about our roots and heritage if there isn't a library to consult. The internet is a poor substitute.”

Workshop participants noted the provision of the 1972 Local Government Act under which local authorities are instructed to make “proper arrangements for their own records” and the contribution of the LS&A to achieving this.

The 35 attendees at the workshop for LS&A users raised a number of points:

•

• • • • •

The service is unique; once it is lost it can’t be restarted or rebuilt but will be lost forever. Any hiatus in the service would create a gap in the collection, ruining it for the future. The loss of current staff expertise would not be replaced, even if the service was started again at a future date The council has a duty of care to contributors for loans and deposits made in good faith (eg, the John Gent postcard collection) The GLA forecasts a third of future jobs in Croydon will be part of the knowledge economy – how can we justify losing knowledge?

The service has already reduced hours. Further reduction will make it unsustainable – users need some consistency and regular access.

The service attracts people to central Croydon, supporting the local economy The service has a strong value for the local community (eg, Howard Primary School anniversary research)

2.4.6 Clocktower arts participation programme “The borough activities give everyone is Croydon a chance to appreciate what goes on and helps balance the cultural differences.

The Arts ambassadors (IGNITE) team at the Clocktower is such a well organised and well loved group and this should not be cut as they organise much of their own funding and have made news around the country. They are something to be made proud of in Croydon and not to be discouraged,” “I have an adult son with LD. Croydon is already desperately lacking in services in this area. If the arts participation programme was cut it would leave little or nothing left for this desperately needy section of Croydon's population.”

Workshop participants commented that the Clocktower was one of the few places in Croydon with an intergenerational feel. People of all ages come together under one roof and take part in positive activities.

2.4.7 Other service areas “The Community halls provide a hub for each area they are in. Selsdon (which is where I live) would be a much poorer place without it. Young & old benefit from the variety of activities that go on or are serviced from there. It is easily accessible in every sense. Removing it would pull the heart from a very active community spirit. We have an aging population and they in particular would be sorely affected by its closure or any kind of reduction in its amenities or services. I assume the other halls are similarly important to their areas.”

“As a member of St Marks Players who perform at the Stanley Halls, we would be greatly impacted if that hall were to close. In fact, recently we have been trying to work with the council to improve the hall as we see it as one of the council's gems” “Local halls need to be kept in good order and available for groups to hire and stage many different events that are a delight to all who attend them. If the halls are closed they will almost certainly fall into disrepair and then be sold for some other purpose. Their replacement is so unlikely as to be out of the question and a worthwhile community asset will be gone forever.”

Workshop participants commented that closure of the Service would leave a lot of empty building space in the Clocktower and community halls. These would continue to have costs and create the maintenance and security problems associated with empty buildings, which did not offer the council value for money.

2.5

Question 4 – How could we do things differently to deliver these services in the current financial climate?

2.5.1 Statistical review There were a total of 874 responses to this question. These responses put forward a number of well considered ideas relating to different areas of the service. Several ideas, listed in the table at 2.5.3 below, were recurring across the consultation. Officer response to ideas proposed have been provided.

2.5.2 Comment Workshop participants noted that a holistic approach to transforming the service would provide similar levels of savings while retaining services.

2.5.3 Summary of ideas proposed Public Responses General across service: Improve marketing of activities

Assessment As many of the events and activities provided by the arts and heritage service are free of charge or low cost, increased attendance would not significantly increase income. Developing a higher pricing strategy across the service’s activities may see a decrease in attendance and would prohibit attendance for some current audiences. Enhanced marketing campaigns would also be likely to have increased direct costs.

Overall, improved marketing is unlikely to generate increased income or savings at a level significant enough to address the council’s budget saving

Introduce loyalty cards with offers on events, drinks etc

Source sponsorship from local businesses

Hire out the Clocktower foyer and the Braithwaite Hall for fairs, displays, promotions, receptions and business events Introduce use of volunteers

David Lean: Offer daytime programme only to suit main clientele of older people

Introduce modest increase in prices and remove concessionary tickets

Riesco Gallery: Close Gallery as not essential part of cultural offering

Local Studies & Archives: Merge into the library service

requirement.

Loyalty cards can be effective at increasing attendance. However, as with the improved marketing recommendation above, an increased direct cost would offset increased income. Overall, loyalty card schemes are unlikely to generate increased income or savings at a level significant enough to address the council’s budget saving requirement.

The arts and heritage service currently accesses business sponsorship for individual events. However, this is unlikely to be a source of significantly increased income in the current economic climate.

The Clocktower spaces are already hired out for a range of commercial events, contributing to arts and heritage service income. Overall, increased hires are unlikely to generate increased income or savings at a level significant enough to address the council’s budget saving requirement.

The arts and heritage service currently works with volunteers in the Museum of Croydon, Local Studies & Archives, Clocktower Arts, and Croydon Summer Festival. Further introduction of volunteer programmes will be considered in any retained arts and heritage services.

The David Lean programme has already been reduced by one evening a week. Further reduction had been considered, but could not be achieved in time to meet the council’s budget saving timetable requirements.

A review of cinema pricing was planned but could not be achieved in time to meet the council’s budget saving timetable requirements. Note the current pricing is very similar to local competitors; an increase could result in reduction in audience numbers.

The Riesco Collection is an essential part of the Museum of Croydon offer. It has been important in attracting external funding (e.g., £50,000 for the Dragon Tales exhibition in 2010). Closure of the Riesco Gallery would not result in significant savings.

This is an option for a retained Local Studies & Archives Service. However, a change to management by the library service will not result in any savings.

Greater use of volunteers to It is possible that increased volunteer support will be supplement professional staff part of a retained service.

Request donations on entry Donations are unlikely to create a significant increase in income and attract additional costs to manage cash

held on premises.

Museum and exhibitions: Small donation on entrance

Greater use of volunteers Move to independent operating model Summer Festival and Mela: Charge entrance fee

Donations are unlikely to create a significant increase in income and require additional costs to manage cash held on premises. A donations box in the Dragon Tales exhibition 2010 achieved only a minimal income contribution.

It is possible that increased volunteer support will be part of a retained service.

A move to a museum or heritage trust had been considered but could not be achieved in time to meet the council’s budget saving timetable requirements.

A feasibility review on Introducing an entrance fee was undertaken in 2009. However, the additional security/site management costs identified as necessary to manage entrance tickets and the risk attached to dependence solely on earned income for a large event suggested that introducing entrance fees was not feasible.

Hold festival every other year The cost would still be equivalent of £75,000 per annum which is not feasible within the council’s current budget constraints.

Equality Impact Assessment Full Assessment

Appendix 2 to item 8 Cabinet 24 January 2011 Arts & Heritage Proposals

1

EQUALITY IMPACT FULL ASSESSMENT (EqIA) SECTION 1: SUMMARY OF EQUALITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EqIA) 1.1 Details of the Policy, Strategy, Function, Project or Activity Title of EqIA: Arts & Heritage Proposals Date of EqIA: 24 January 2011 State whether EqIA is on a Policy, Strategy, Function, Project or Activity or which combination of these: Function Indicate whether it is a ‘new’ or an ‘existing’ Policy, Strategy, Function, Project or Activity (Mark with a ‘X’): New [ ] Existing [X] 1.2 Details of the person completing the EqIA Full Name: Edward McDermott Position: Cultural Planning Officer Department: Community Services Telephone number: Ext 62228 1.3 What is the aim and objective of the Policy, Strategy, Function, Project or Activity?

The purpose of this EqIA is to assess the impact of reducing the arts and heritage service budget in light of the Comprehensive Spending Review. If a decision is made to change the current service it could result in a reduction in spending of £1,478k.

The council’s arts and heritage service operates with a budget of £2.924m and a staff team of 40 people (34.5 FTE 2

posts). The service supports the strategic development of culture in Croydon, working locally with, for example, Fairfield Halls, Croydon College and the BRIT School and nationally with sector lead bodies such as Arts Council England. It delivers the following services: Arts: the arts service provides: • Clocktower Arts and David Lean cinema: 100 live events and 900 film screenings a year, attracting audiences of 35,000 • Clocktower outreach and participation: 300 workshops and training sessions attracting attendances of 6,000, including the popular IGNiTE young people’s club; Big White Light theatre and Club Soda music events for people with learning disabilities; and Perpanata Theatre for young refugees • Arts development: an annual programme of 100 arts events and activities, including Croydon Summer Festival, Black History Month, the Big Dance, Croydon Film Festival and Testing 123 music talent competition, attracting audiences of 125,000 • The arts service operates with 7 staff (includes Head of Service) and a budget of £650k Heritage: the museum and heritage service provides: • The Museum of Croydon: permanent collection and exhibition programme attracting 80,000 visits a year.

Conservation and collection management of the Borough’s collections (Riesco Collection of Chinese Ceramics, Croydon Art Collection, Oral History, Social History and Archaeology collections). Recent exhibitions include Scene Unseen (showcasing the council’s art collection) and the current Dragon Tales, based on a prestigious loan from the British Museum which attracted project funding of £50k.

• Museum education and outreach programme: workshops and events attracting annually 4,000 school students and 2,500 family, young and older people visits • Local Studies Library and Borough Archive: conservation and interpretation of the Borough Archive; delivery of the Local Studies & Archives Public Research Room, handling 4,000 research visits in person and 500 remote enquiries a year • The museum and heritage service operates with 15 staff (11.5 FTE) and a budget of £614k Operations & Business: this support service for arts and heritage provides: • Clocktower management: management of the building, the arts café/bar, front of house and technical 3

services for Clocktower Arts and David Lean • Community halls: management of four community halls (Stanley Halls, Selsdon Hall, Canterbury Road Community Centre and Highbury Community Centre) • Income generation: a conference, hires and events service at the Clocktower and community halls generating £335k income per annum • The operations and business team operates with 18 staff (15.5 FTE) and a budget of £1,660k In November 2010, four options for reducing the service budget were identified, proposing savings ranging from £150k to £1,478k. The options were as follows: • Option 1 – Delete the Croydon Summer Festival • Option 2 – Small scale arts and heritage service, resulting in reduction in the Museum of Croydon exhibition, education and interpretation programme and loss of opening hours in Local Studies Library. The David Lean Cinema will close, reducing opening hours in the evening at the Clocktower. The Summer Festival would be deleted as above and other arts events and activity would decrease.

• Option 3 – Separate museum, archive and arts offers - reduction in the Museum of Croydon exhibition, education and interpretation programme and loss of opening hours in Local Studies Library as for Option 2.

Clocktower Arts and the David Lean Cinema will close. The Summer Festival would be deleted and other arts events and activity would decrease.

The Clocktower and community halls would cease to trade as venues for hire with the closed buildings transferring to alternative departmental management. The revised staff structure for the service would not retain senior management, and the remaining service would be managed through another service.

• Option 4 – Small-scale Museum and Archive offer - the public access areas of the Museum of Croydon would close, although a permanent static display of the Riesco Collection would be retained. The Local Studies Library would close. All arts services would be deleted. The revised staff structure for the service would not retain senior management, and the remaining service would be managed through another service. The 4

Clocktower and community halls would transfer to another department (assumes no income generating function).

The Borough Archive would be maintained, possibly with limited public access by appointment.

On 15 November 2010, Cabinet agreed a full public consultation on the options. Consultation ran from 21 November 2010-06 January 2011.

SECTION 2: IDENTIFYING AND INVOLVING STAKEHOLDERS 2.1 List the main stakeholders involved that have an impact on outcomes (see list in guidance for examples).

National Partners: • Arts Council England (ACE) • Museums Libraries & Archives Council (MLA) • Heritage Lottery Fund • Museum of London • British Museum Local Partners & users: • Residents of Croydon • Local councilors • Council staff • Culture & Sport Partnership • Fairfield Halls • London Mozart Players • Croydon College • BRIT School • Local Studies Forum • Local Strategic Partnership members 5

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Clocktower audiences David Lean audiences Ignite youth group Club soda Big White Light projects for people with learning difficulties Perpanata theatre for young refugees Schools Community arts network Black History Month steering group Film Festival Steering group South Norwood Public Art steering group Mela committee Museum visitors Museum project partners Older people’s groups Daycare centres Local study’s visitors Hall and workshop room hirers

2.2

How have you, or how will you involve your stakeholders? Identify which level of involvement is appropriate for each stakeholder.

Information Press release outlines the options and ways in which public can offer feedback Online information via Croydon Council website Consultation

Croydon Residents • Survey questionnaire was issued for public consultation available in a variety of accessible formats: o Downloadable from local websites o Survey Monkey link o Hardcopies at key outlets – Clocktower, libraries, leisure centres, contact centre, Fairfield halls 6

Users • Clocktower Arts and David Lean cinema users – direct contact using existing email lists • Local studies forum – Distribution of questionnaire using existing email lists • Museum visitors – Distribution of questionnaire using existing email lists • Clocktower and community halls hirers – Distribution of questionnaire using existing email lists • Schools – Distribution of questionnaire using existing contacts with teachers/Head teachers Local Partners • Direct questionnaire distribution through existing email lists – CVA, BME Forum National/Regional Partners • Questionnaire distributed to groups with letter from Director of Culture & Sport to LCIG & CLOA Participation

Staff • Staff workshops x 4 • Meeting with specific teams available on request • Weekly Arts & Heritage manager meetings during consultation period Community groups & users • Meeting with Ignite Youth Group (regular meeting) • Facilitated workshop with Club Soda & Big White Light for people with learning disabilities • Facilitated workshop with Perpanata theatre for young refugees • Open meeting for Local Studies & Archives customers • Presentation to LGBT coordinating group National partners • One to one meetings with Arts Council England, MLA Council, Heritage Lottery Fund

SECTION 3: ASSEMBLING AND ANALYSING EVIDENCE 7

3.1

Briefly summarise the main findings (positive and negative) from the evidence you have gathered through the involvement of stakeholders listed above.

On 15 November 2010, Cabinet approved a public consultation on the following options for the arts and heritage services:

SERVICES AFFECTED Croydon Summer Festival & Mela Museum of Croydon (main galleries and collection) Museum of Croydon (Riesco Gallery) Museum of Croydon (Exhibition Gallery) Space C and CafĂŠ Galleries Museum education programme Local studies library and archive service Clocktower Arts (theatre, music, events) David Lean Cinema Clocktower arts participation activities for young people, people with learning disabilities, refugees and schools.

One X

X

OPTION Three X X

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

reduced reduced

X

9

9

9

X

9

9

reduced reduced

X

9

9

reduced reduced

archive only

9

9

9

X

X

9

9 9

X 9

X X

X X

9 9

Two

X

Four

Five 9

conservation 9 only 9 9

8

reduced Borough-wide arts events 9 and activities (e.g.

Croydon celebrates black history) 9 9 Braithwaite, Stanley, Canterbury, Selsdon halls community and event hire SAVING £150k £765k 9 = service retained X = service deleted

reduced

X

9

X

X

9

£1.113m £1.478m zero reduced = service reduced

Summary of consultation findings The consultation was conducted from 21 November to 6 January 2011. A range of methods were used to engage people in the consultation including the use of a consultation questionnaire, delivery of workshop sessions and meetings with statutory bodies and funding partners (as outlined in section2). Local press also undertook a campaign.

In total, 1,516 people responded to the consultation questionnaire which represents 0.4% of the borough’s population, and represents statistically valid sample. It is approximately 1% of service users and the equivalent in size to the industry standard sample who responded to the Arts Council/Sport England Active People.

Summary of findings The consultation included a substantial number of considered and well argued responses, which showed a sympathetic understanding of the council’s financial situation and generated many innovative and helpful suggestions and options. Not surprisingly, 46.2% of consultees chose Option 1 as their most recommended option, with the least recommended option being Option 4 (74.8%).

Question 1 - Of the five options proposed which do you most and least recommend?

Answer One Two Three Four Five 9

Options Most 46.2% 21.1% 4% 1.5% recommended Least 4.3% 1.4% 3.7% 74.8% recommended answered question skipped question

27.2% 15.8% 1458 58

Over 93% of consultees indicated that a reduction in funding to the Arts and Heritage service would have a moderate or severe impact on them as individuals, or groups. Consultees indicated that there would be a negative impact on community cohesion, local pride, quality of life and perception of Croydon.

Question 2 - What impact would a reduction in arts and heritage services have on you as an individual or group?

Response Response Answer Options Percent Count Little or none 7% 103 Moderate 40.5% 597 Severe 52.5% 773 answered question 1473 skipped question 43 The consultation identified the Clocktower and David Lean Cinema, Museum of Croydon, Local Studies and Archives, and the arts participation programme as areas of the service that were particularly valued.

Throughout the consultation, additional comments were collated regarding the impact of a reduction in funding. These comments broadly relate to the following themes: community cohesion and pride; Perception of Croydon; and children and young people and adults with disabilities.

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Community Cohesion, Pride and Quality of Life There was a clear expression of the arts and heritage services role in promoting strong community cohesion, a sense of belonging and pride and a way of improving quality of life. Consultees felt that Croydon is a very diverse borough and an excellent representation of cultures living side by side. The projects delivered by the arts and heritage service are well respected, leading examples of community engagement work.

Sample of quotes “They provide an invaluable service – vital for learning, well-being, promoting understanding of diverse cultures and therefore greater tolerance and respect for one another, and developing creativity. Our lives, our culture and our sense of local and national pride are enriched by the arts and heritage”.

“Arts and Heritage are vital to developing a sense of community and community participation. We need the arts, cinema even more in tough times to help keep spirits up. It would be a great loss if these essential spaces and services are closed” “The arts are an important part of community cohesion and happiness. It is inexcusable to deny the basic provision of culture to all in a free and inclusive way. The scrapping of the summer festival and Mela will impact greatly on the thousands of people who annually went to enjoy a wide range of dance and music from communities that are already under represented and rarely celebrated in such a scale.”

“At a time when people (myself included) are increasingly concerned about their jobs, housing and finances, the arts provide an incredibly important function - raising morale, keeping people going, ensuring that economic depression does not create a selfish, individualistic society in which every person is out for themselves, as could so easily happen, but works together as a community. In my opinion, maintaining a strong, free arts service throughout the recession is almost the only way to ensure solidarity, community and maintenance of the idea that life is about far more than monetary gain!”

Children and young people Through the consultation workshops, there has been strong representation by, and on behalf of, young people about the 11

intrinsic value and unique offer of the Clocktower arts participation programme. The programme is seen as a unique opportunity to develop skills and creative talent and as town centre provision of positive activities for young people who feel there is a lack of alternative provision available.

The consultation highlighted that youth groups use the Clocktower as there is a lack of alternatives in central Croydon.

Young people value the facilities and demonstrate respect and a level of ownership towards them. The activities delivered provide them with an outlet to express themselves.

The Clocktower is one of very few places in Croydon which has an intergenerational feel about it. People of all ages come together under one roof and take part in positive activities.

Consultees felt that the arts and heritage service offers a chance for children and young people to partake in positive activities and experiences that encourage social and personal development.

Sample of quotes “The arts in general are constantly being cut back. Children are having very little influence of arts in their lives already, which is a shame as the arts help us to become better thinkers. The arts help us to express emotions that may be suppressed and allow us to give opinions and discuss them without fear of rejection”.

“As part of the IGNiTE music team and as an Ambassador I feel that this would affect me greatly. I have been involved with IGNiTE music for many years now and it has helped me develop as a person and become more confident in myself. It shows that young people are able to organise a large event and budget for it too. It also displays young people in a better light than they have previously been perceived, it gets us off the streets and mixing with different groups of young people, which in turn helps us to appreciate each other”.

“I joined IGNITE almost three years ago. I was failing 4/4 A-Levels at Croydon College and on a downwards spiral. Ignite helped me make sense of life. Showed me where my talents lie and how to use them. It kept me in college. I came out with 4 good A levels. It's helped me develop as an artist. Without it, I don't know where I could have ended up. I got the chance to perform, develop and have been offered other gigs since. I've also been offered jobs based on my experiences I gained through IGNITE. To know the impact it can have on young people like me, means I know how many lives are effectively 12

SAVED. Save the Arts in Croydon. Save the Future of Croydon�.

Through the consultation workshops, there has been strong representation by, and on behalf of, young people about the intrinsic value and unique offer of the Clocktower arts participation programme. The programme is seen as a unique opportunity to develop skills and creative talent and as town centre provision of positive activities for young people who feel there is a lack of alternative provision available.

The consultation highlighted that youth groups use the Clocktower as there is a lack of alternatives in central Croydon.

Young people value the facilities and demonstrate respect and a level of ownership towards them. The activities delivered provide them with an outlet to express themselves.

The Clocktower is one of very few places in Croydon which has an intergenerational feel about it. People of all ages come together under one roof and take part in positive activities.

Workshop participants commented that the Museum of Croydon is a valuable resource which informs both local residents and visitors of the long and diverse history of the borough. It is especially important for the education of children, not only teaching them of local life and events in days past but also linking the importance of their heritage to the present day, by means of exhibitions and modern technology.

People with disabilities and learning disabilities Through workshops and meetings, there has been strong representation by disabled people, specifically people with learning disabilities of all ages and their representative agencies, about the intrinsic value and unique offer of the Clocktower, both its participation programme (Big White Light Theatre, Club Soda) and the cultural resource offered through the David Lean Cinema. There has been visible concern and distress at the potential loss of these services and the limited opportunity for replacement of such carefully crafted service and support for those involved.

Consultees felt that the service had an excellent record of inclusion and involvement of disadvantaged groups, including people with learning disabilities. The exhibitions, projects, displays and educational programmes are to be proud of and should continually be supported.

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Sample of quotes “I work with adults with learning disabilities in Croydon and over the years; many of the people I work with have grown so much and have found so much happiness through being part of The Club Soda team, The White Light Theatre Company or the media group. These projects have given people meaningful employment, helped develop a wide range of skills and have led to the development of many close friendships. This would be irreplaceable if funding was cut as would the wonderful Club Soda that provides such a fantastic night out for people that have such a limited range of options to safely and comfortably socialise and have fun in Croydon. Please do not cut the funding for these essential projects.”

“Council cuts would drastically impact on the lives of many hundreds of people with learning disabilities who utilise the arts service for a wide number of reasons including a personal interest, a passion for the arts, for self-development and also the benefits to their well being. Two programmes in particular; IGNITE for young people aged 14-19 and Club Soda for people with learning disabilities are both well established, highly successful schemes based at Croydon Clocktower. The impact of cutting Club Soda and its numerous activities would isolate a huge number of people with disabilities who rely on Club Soda as their only regular social interaction; this includes people in full-time care, supported living and people living independently. It would literally cut off people who participate in weekly activity; such as the committee, trainees on work experience, interns, participants learning DJ’ing, Media Team members who practice film-making and manage a website and also a number of talented performers who find opportunity with Club Soda to perform and guide others. It would also affect hundreds of people who attend the events Club Soda produce throughout the year”.

Workshop participants commented that the activities for people with learning disabilities provided at the Clocktower provide a safe environment for people to come together, develop new skills and reach their potential.

The 18 individuals who attended the adults with disabilities workshop put views as to how the arts and heritage service positively impacts their lives. It was clear from this workshop that the activities provided for adults with disabilities at the Clocktower are an invaluable resource that enables individuals to gain transferable skills that provide life changing experiences and routes into further training and work. There are no alternative creative provisions for adults with disabilities in Croydon and therefore if cut would restrict many active participants.

The following is a sample of some of the feedback given by individuals at the workshop.

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• The night time activities provide a safe, friendly environment to go to at night. We have found it dangerous going to a standard nightclub.

• I have a disability but have managed to learn music skills that I can pass onto people who are even less fortunate to myself. Without these we may as well be back in institutions • I’m angry and upset; this is not fair on those with disabilities. What are we going to do? We don’t have anywhere else we feel safe to be. We will end up just sitting indoors • Came here with no confidence. I made friends and became more confident. This is like a home to us and without it I’ll lose my confidence again.

• It bought me out of my shell, before I was sat at home doing nothing. This one night a week keeps me going.

• This is good for carers as they can meet other careers and talk about their experiences • It’s like a family I’ve never had. Losing this would break my heart • Provides jobs to those disadvantaged who couldn’t hold them down elsewhere Cultural facilities for older people There has been substantial representation from users and local residents, many of whom are older, or elderly, about the importance of the David Lean Cinema and its dedicated cultural offer for older people in central Croydon. There is a perceived lack of alternatives.

Workshop participants felt the David Lean Cinema offers older people a safe, stimulating environment that is not available elsewhere in central Croydon. Older people would have little reason to come in to the centre of Croydon if this cultural hub was removed.

Other Key messages from the consultation LGBT: The message from the LGBT forum was that "The arts and heritage service have been a huge supporter of LGBT communities and have played a pivotal role in raising their profile through innovative projects and exhibitions."

Sample quote: “The Museum of Croydon is my favourite Museum in London. It has an exceptional and pioneering record in putting on 15

cutting edge exhibitions revealing the previously hidden histories of ordinary people. The Museum pioneered the display of Gay and Lesbian History before this was represented in other museums, as well as well as recent exhibitions on Mental Health and Art and the history of Day Care Centres for People with Learning Disabilities.”

3.2

Briefly summarise the main findings from any research you have undertaken to assist you in assessing the impact, both positive and negative.

Borough profile According to population projections, there are 335,094 people in Croydon; the largest borough population in London.

There are over 80,000 children and young people aged 0-19 years living in Croydon, which is the largest population of children and young people in London. However, over the next twenty years, Croydon’s population will contain a greater proportion of people aged above 60 years of age.

There are higher proportions of Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities in the North of the borough compared to the South. Wards such as West Thornton and Broad Green contain some of the highest levels of ethnic diversity in London and England. Whilst the Centre and South tend to be less diverse, changes in the ethnicity of the school-aged population indicates that the ethnic make up of all neighbourhoods will continue to change over the next twenty years.

Croydon is home to a variety of faiths, but has a larger than average proportion of people from a Muslim and Hindu faith compared to England. Wards in the North have a greater diversity of faiths with a larger proportion of Muslims and Hindus compared to the borough average.

Profile summary of wards The arts and heritage service serves the whole borough. Below outlines the demographic profile of boroughs wards: • Addiscombe, Ashburton and Woodside - ethnically diverse area with a wide range of age groups • Broad Green and Waddon - ethnically diverse area especially within its younger population, and an area of high deprivation • Coulsdon - proportionally more older people, less ethnically diverse, and with a high white population compared to borough average 16

• Fairfield, Heathfield and Shirley - mix of ethnically diverse and non-diverse areas, as well as a mix of predominantly younger and older areas • New Addington and Fieldway – a predominately white population, with a high percentage of children and young people, and an area of high deprivation • Norbury and Upper Norwood - very ethnically and religiously diverse area, with a slightly older population • Purley and Kenley - slightly higher percentages of younger and older people than Croydon average and a predominately white population • Sanderstead, Croham, Selsdon and Ballards - mix of older and working age people, predominately a white, Christian population, with the exception of the Selsdon and Ballards ward, which is ethnically and religiously diverse • South Norwood and Selhurst - very ethnically diverse area, with a high proportion of Muslim and younger and working age people • Thornton Heath, Bensham Manor and West Thornton - very ethnically and religiously diverse area, and an area of high deprivation Equalities impact proposed service cut: Croydon Summer Festival: The Summer Festival including the Croydon Mela is an opportunity for people from all over the borough and from different cultures and backgrounds to get together. 50,000 people attended over the 2 days in 2010.

Ceasing the festival may have an impact because the proportion of residents in Croydon who are from Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) groups (Black, Asian, Mixed, Chinese and Other ethnic groups) is higher than the overall pattern for London.

According to Greater London Authority projections, in 2009, 40% of the population belong to BME groups, compared to 35% in London.

David Lean Cinema: The loss of the David Lean Cinema may impact older people as cinema audiences are traditionally older (note average percentage of David Lean tickets sold at concession price is around 60%). The closure of the David Lean Cinema would have an impact because over the next twenty years Croydon’s population will contain a greater proportion of people aged above 60 years of age. The provision of safe and accessible space in central Croydon will be lost.

Clocktower arts and participation: The loss of Clocktower live arts and participation programmes will impact on the 17

groups that use the service including children and young people (IGNITE, youth participation programme, Arts Ambassadors scheme), people with disabilities (Club Soda/ White Light theatre company – theatre activities for people with learning disabilities), LGBT individuals and groups, BME communities and faith groups, and social and economically excluded groups and individuals, particularly through the loss of Arts Ambassadors Scheme, Clocktower youth and participation programme, Club Soda/Big White Light. The provision of safe and accessible space in central Croydon will be lost.

Borough-wide arts programme: The loss of borough-wide arts programmes will impact on children and young people, people with disabilities, LGBT individuals and groups, BME communities and faith groups, and social and economically excluded groups and individuals, particularly through the loss of Black History Month, specific neighbourhood projects (Broad Green arts, South Norwood public art) and project with specific groups (Urban Feast) . The role of the arts in enabling community cohesion will also be lost.

Museum of Croydon: The loss of the museum service will impact on children and young people, people with disabilities, LGBT individuals and groups, BME communities and faith groups, and social and economically excluded groups. The provision of safe and accessible space in central Croydon will be lost.

Local Studies & Archives: The loss of the Local Studies & Archives service will impact on older people, BME communities and faith groups. The loss of publicly accessible shared heritage will have a negative impact on community cohesion.

Community Halls: The loss of community spaces for hire will impact on faith groups as there are a high percentage of hires for Christian faith groups and Asian weddings.

SECTION 4: JUDGING IMPACT AND PLANNING ACTIONS 4.1 Which of the following does the policy, strategy, function, project or activity work towards and briefly describe how: 1. Eliminating By retaining parts of the service including: discrimination? • Local Studies and Archives 18

2. Eliminating harassment?

3. Promoting equality of opportunity?

• Museum of Croydon subject to negotiation.

• Retained arts participation programme for people with learning disabilities and young at risk These services help to eliminate discrimination by bringing people together.

N/a

By retaining parts of the service including: • Local Studies and Archives • Museum of Croydon subject to negotiation.

• Retained arts participation programme for people with learning disabilities and young at risk These services help to promote equality of opportunity by giving people access to these services 4. Promoting positive By retaining parts of the service including: attitudes?

• Local Studies and Archives • Museum of Croydon subject to negotiation.

• Retained arts participation programme for people with learning disabilities and young at risk These services help to promote positive by giving people access to these services and bringing people together 5. Participation in public By retaining parts of the service including: life?

• Museum of Croydon subject to negotiation.

• Retained arts participation programme for people with learning disabilities and young at risk These services help to promote participation in public life access to these services which they would otherwise not have.

6. Promote good relations By retaining parts of the service including: between different • Local Studies and Archives groups?

• Museum of Croydon subject to negotiation.

• Retained arts participation programme for people with learning disabilities and young at 19

risk These services help to promote good relations between different groups giving people access to these services and bringing people together

20

4.2

From the evidence, gathered and analysed during the impact assessment process, which groups are/would impact upon by this decision?

Age Positive Impact 0–18 years

Negative Impact 9

19-35

None

Through the loss of services as detailed in section 3 including: • Croydon Summer Festival • Clocktower Arts & participation programme – Arts Ambassadors scheme • Borough-wide arts programme • Museum of Croydon – work with schools i.e. Dragons Tails exhibition 9

36-65

Detail

None specifically identified

9 9

Over 65

Through the loss of services as detailed in section 3 including: • David Lean Cinema • Clocktower Arts & participation programme • Borough-wide arts programme • Museum of Croydon • Local Studies & Archives • Community Halls

Disability Positive Impact Learning

Negative Impact 9

None

Detail Through the loss of services as detailed in section 3 including: 21

• • • • •

disability

Croydon Summer Festival David Lean Cinema Clocktower Arts & participation programme Borough-wide arts programme Museum of Croydon

Physical disability Mental health

9

None specifically identified

9

None specifically identified

Deaf or hard of hearing Visually impaired Other, including carers

9

None specifically identified

9

None specifically identified

9

Through the loss of services as detailed in section 3 including: • Clocktower Arts & participation programme • Borough-wide arts programme • Museum of Croydon

Gender Positive Impact Female

Negative Impact

None

9

Male

9

Transgender

9

Detail David Lean Cinema – through the loss of the bring your own baby screenings None specifically identified None specifically identified

Race Positive

Negative

None

Detail 22

Impact

Impact

Asian

9

Black

9

White

9

Mixed

9

Other, such as Travelers Religious/Faith Groups Positive Impact Buddhist

Through the loss of services as detailed in section 3 including: • Croydon Summer Festival • Clocktower Arts & participation programme • Borough-wide arts programme • Museum of Croydon • Local Studies & Archives • Community Halls 9

Negative Impact

None specifically identified

None 9

Detail None specifically identified

Christian

9

Through the loss of services as detailed in section 3 including: • Community Halls

Hindu

9

Through the loss of services as detailed in section 3 including: • Croydon Summer Festival • Community Halls

Jewish Muslim

Sikh

9 9

None specifically identified Through the loss of services as detailed in section 3 including: • Croydon Summer Festival • Community Halls

9

None specifically identified 23

No religion/faith Other Sexual Orientation Positive Impact Heterosexual

Negative Impact

9

None specifically identified

9

None specifically identified

None 9

Detail None specifically identified

Lesbian

9

Through the loss of services as detailed in section 3 including: • Clocktower Arts & participation programme • Borough-wide arts programme • Museum of Croydon

Gay

9

Through the loss of services as detailed in section 3 including: • Clocktower Arts & participation programme • Borough-wide arts programme • Museum of Croydon

Bisexual

9

Through the loss of services as detailed in section 3 including: • Clocktower Arts & participation programme • Borough-wide arts programme • Museum of Croydon

Community Cohesion 1 Positive

Negative

None

Detail

1

That which must happen in all communities to enable different groups of people to get on well together. This includes fostering strong and positive relationships between new and existing communities.

24

Impact Community cohesion

Impact 9

Social and economic exclusion 2 Positive Negative Impact Impact 9 Social and economic exclusion

Over 93% of consultees indicated that a reduction in funding to the Arts and Heritage service would have a moderate or severe impact on them as individuals, or groups. Consultees indicated that there would be a negative impact on community cohesion, local pride, quality of life and perception of Croydon.

None

Detail The loss of service will decrease opportunities for attendance and participation at free arts events and activities. There will be a loss of training/career opportunities for young people and people with learning disabilities through the Clocktower participation programme.

4.3 Equality Group3

Actions arising from the equality impact assessment Action (SMART) Intended Outcome Completion Date

A, R, RB

Retained Local Studies & Archives with a value for money exercise conducted on its optimum operating model and opening hours, ensuring that

Meet customer requirements

Tbc

Lead Officer Tbc

Lead Partner4 Tbc

2

Persistent inequality of those who are social or economically excluded or marginalised and those living in poverty.

Enter in this column which of the equality groups that the action encompasses: race (r), disability (d), age (a), sexual orientation (so), gender (g), religion/belief (rb), social inclusion (si), cohesion (c) 4 If appropriate.

3

25

there is no hiatus in the archive collection for future generations.

A, D, R, RB, SO Retained museum function to be negotiated with NHMF.

Meet customer requirements including work with those groups identified in this report.

Tbc

Tbc

Tbc

A, D

Retained arts participation programme for people with learning disabilities and young at risk (some elements of activity will be delivered through external funding).

Retain elements of existing programme specifically targeted at people with learning difficulties and young people at risk.

Tbc

Tbc

Tbc

A, D

Potential alternative cinema provision at Fairfield Halls/local commercial cinema providers

Meet customer requirements, specifically existing users of David Lean i.e. older people

Tbc

Tbc

Tbc

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SECTION 5: RISK 5.1

If there are negative impacts identified, and the action does not completely remove the impact please detail below, and add to your risk register?

Risk/ issues Action Resource Timescales Lead Officer Expected Progress identified required implications outcome Loss of To signpost to TBC TBC TBC Other TBC services for other services organisations specific groups and as detailed in organisations this report whose needs are not met by actions.

SECTION 6: SIGN-OFF AND PUBLICATION 6.1 I agree with the outcome of the above EqIA and actions arising.

Lead Officer Name Signature Date Lead Director Name

Tom Jeffrey, Executive Director, Community Services

Signature 27

Date

13 January 2011

Date sent to corporate equalities and cohesion team (data.equalities@croydon.gov.uk) THIS SECTION TO BE COMPLETED BY THE CORPORATE EQUALITIES AND COHESION TEAM Publication Date (summary on website)

28