Supporters - Citizens For Culture

Citizens for Culture supporters

Citizens for Culture is a collaborative effort, bringing together organisations, individuals, and communities across the West of England to shape a more inclusive and accessible cultural sector through a Citizens’ Assembly.

We are grateful to the organisations and individuals who have pledged their support, in lots of different ways to help amplify the voices of citizens and drive meaningful change in how culture is shaped, funded, and sustained in our region.

Their commitment strengthens our mission to ensure that creativity and cultural opportunities are available to all.

Would you like to support Citizens for Culture? Drop us an email at contact@citizensforculture.info, or get involved by filling out this form.

Helen Godwin

Mayor of the West of England

“From festivals to theatre, sport to heritage, clubs to cinema, and so much more besides, culture in the West knows few limits – or equals. Creativity is part of who we are, and everyone in our region deserves to make the most of the best of life in our part of the world.“How we understand and tell our story will be a big part of this new chapter for the West, and will be key to attracting further investment. It’s past time for all communities, wherever or whoever they are in our region, to be connected – including to the economic opportunities offered by a world-renowned cultural scene.“I can’t wait to see the ideas and energy of the new Citizens’ Assembly on culture. Their collective voice will be an important part of shaping our plans on culture, which will be developed and delivered with partners from the sector and local councils.”

Cllr Kevin Guy

Leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council & Deputy Mayor for West of England

“Citizens for Culture represents exactly the kind of bold, citizen-led thinking we need to build a more inclusive and dynamic cultural future across the West of England. In Bath and North East Somerset, we are proud to support this initiative as part of our wider ambition to place culture at the heart of community wellbeing, economic renewal, and civic pride. By working in partnership with our neighbouring authorities, the West of England Combined Authority, and the creative sector, we can unlock the full potential of our region through a cultural plan shaped by its people. Citizens for Culture is a key step towards that goal.”

Cllr Tony Dyer

Leader of Bristol City Council

“Culture in our city and region is part of our everyday lives. It brings people together, supports jobs, inspires learning, and creates spaces where everyone can feel welcome and represented. Our cultural scene is known around the world, but its true strength lies in the people and communities who shape it. That’s why it’s so important that we listen to local voices and work together to shape the future of culture in our region. By supporting the Citizens for Culture approach, we’re committing to a shared journey — one where everyone has a role in building a cultural life that reflects and supports us all. We’re excited to learn, contribute, and help ensure that culture continues to thrive for everyone in Bristol and beyond.”

Cllr Mike Bell

Leader of North Somerset Council

“North Somerset Council is happy to support Citizens for Culture. We see real value in this initiative, not just as a catalyst for culture, but as a powerful driver for inward investment. The opportunity for a broad range of partners to come together with residents and cultural champions, pooling their creativity and expertise, is really exciting. A vibrant, inclusive cultural landscape that truly reflects our region is an important part of what makes our area a great place to live and we are pleased to work with Citizens for Culture to help achieve that.”

Cllr Maggie Tyrrell

Leader of South Gloucestershire Council

““We’re proud to support Citizens for Culture, the UK’s first Citizens’ Assembly dedicated to creating a region-wide Cultural Delivery Plan. This exciting collaboration brings together voices from across South Gloucestershire and the wider West of England to ensure that culture and creativity are accessible to everyone. Through meaningful participation, we’re helping to shape a future where arts and culture play a central role in community life, local pride and economic opportunity.”

Adam Gallacher – Trinity Community Arts