New Report Alert: The Impact of Proposed Funding Cuts on Youth Services and Arts in Northern Ireland
In this short report, WheelWorks Arts (WWA) delves into the far-reaching consequences of recent funding cuts on youth organisations and the arts in Northern Ireland. Conducted in the summer of 2023, this study focuses on the repercussions of budget reductions on marginalized young people and the dedicated organizations that support them.
The 2023-24 fiscal year budget allocation for Northern Ireland, set by the Westminster government due to the absence of an executive at Stormont, has resulted in severe financial difficulties. With approximately £800 million in cuts and revenue-raising measures, the Department of Education initiated cuts to several programs. The Arts Council of Northern Ireland (ACNI) plans a 10% reduction in annual funding, further compounding ongoing reductions in arts funding totaling £23 million over six years. This has adversely impacted many supported organizations, jeopardizing access to the arts for disadvantaged young people.
WWA conducted qualitative consultations with arts and youth workers and teachers to gain insights into the consequences of these cuts. The report synthesizes findings from interviews with fourteen individuals:
Key Findings:
- Impact on Youth Services: Funding cuts have had tangible and widespread effects on organizations supporting marginalized youth in Northern Ireland, resulting in reduced services, diminished personal development opportunities, and dwindling resources. This has, in turn, affected the well-being and development of young people and their communities.
- Decline in Demand for Workshops: The survey highlights a significant reduction in demand for youth-led workshops, affecting the accessibility of creative and educational programs for young individuals. This decline potentially contributes to social isolation and hinders personal development among marginalized youth.
- Need for Diversification: Faced with funding challenges and reduced demand, artists and organizations are considering diversifying their career paths to sustain their work and income. Diversification is seen as a necessary response to the evolving landscape of arts funding.
- Recommendations and Advocacy: Surveyed individuals actively advocate for increased funding and support for the arts, recognizing its pivotal role in the well-being of marginalized youth and communities. Recommendations include exploring additional funding sources and lobbying for increased allocation to the arts.