DCMS Voluntary Arts survey.

[VML]

This survey should be of interest to churches as active participants in the arts:
I have made a case in my replies for the contribution made by the Church to the artistic life of the country to be recognised.

'DCMS conducts first national study of voluntary arts activity in England
dates: 1-29 February On 1 February, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport will be
launching the first ever national survey of amateur arts groups in England.

Groups of voluntary and amateur participants from all artistic walks of life
– from music, dance and crafts, to theatre, visual arts and literature - are
being encouraged to participate by going to http://www.artsurvey.org.uk and
completing a short online questionnaire before 29 February 2008.

(going live 01.02.08 according to website)

Culture Minister, Margaret Hodge, said:

The arts are a really important part of so many people's lives.
Taking part in local voluntary arts groups is rewarding, fascinating and fun. This
survey is the first step to connect with those involved. Over 70% of people
in England take part in artistic activities in all their many and varied
forms - but for too long, local arts groups have not been fully recognised
as an important part of our thriving arts scene. This survey will try to map
voluntary and amateur arts groups and look at how they are supported and how
more people could be encouraged to get involved.

The results will be published in the summer.'

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