Businesses in Hull and East Yorkshire are being urged to pledge commitment to arts and culture in the area by signing up to a creative charter.
Thought to be the first of its kind in the UK, The Hull and East Yorkshire Creative Charter aims to bolster the region’s creative sector.
The charter is a declaration to collaborate with the arts sector for collective good, with no cost or direct financial commitment required to join. By signing, businesses are asked to “unite” to connect with arts organisations and freelancers, “advocate” for Hull and East Yorkshire’s creative sector, “grow” by utilising creative organisations where possible and supporting them financially, and “include” by using their collective voice to create a more equitable future for all involved.
Signatories will be encouraged to work with arts and cultural groups where possible, such as displaying local artwork on their premises, celebrating culture on their social media channels, donating staff time to support events or activities, and offering training course spaces to creatives free of charge.
The charter's founding signatories include Hull City Council, East Riding of Yorkshire City Council, the University of Hull, Hull College, the Hull and Humber Chamber of Commerce, and tourist attraction The Deep.
“The arts sector delivers so much for our region, but it can’t do it all on its own,” said Max May, Chief Officer of cultural partnership HEY Creative, at the launch of the charter.
“Collaborating with the creative sector can spark fresh ideas which unlock growth opportunities and change the way companies approach challenges. We’re fortunate to have a rich and varied cultural scene across the region, and the Creative Charter opens up opportunities for businesses and other organisations to tap into it.”