We want Luton Arts Place Partnership Programme (Luton Arts Programme) to truly support local artists and creatives. That’s why in, in spring 2025, we began by listening. We asked you about your challenges, hopes, and ideas – and you shared them with us. To make sure your voices shaped our plans we carried out a Needs Analysis – so we could design support that makes a real difference.
How we listened
We worked with Variable Matter to run the study. This included:
- Research using existing cultural data and reports
- Interviews with arts organisations, funders, and community leaders
- Two consultation workshops at Luton Central Library
- A survey for local artists and creatives
Who took part
- 71 people completed the survey
- 14 joined the workshop
- We also spoke to cultural stakeholders
What we heard
Local creatives told us what matters most:
Access to funding & commissions
- Simpler application processes
- Clear, step-by-step guidance
- Mentoring and one-to-one support
Resources & development
- Help with funding applications
- Affordable creative spaces
- Marketing and audience development support
Long-term support
- Career development opportunities
- Follow-up funding
- Connections to other commissioning opportunities
Sharing work
- Engaging new audiences was the top priority
Key recommendations
The report made 28 recommendations, including:
- Plan an exit strategy for the programme
- Improve access to creative spaces
- Strengthen the Arts and Culture Strategy Group
- Focus the Resource Hub on human support
- Clarify the purpose of the celebratory event
How we’re responding
Funding & commissions
- Create Fund: Simple application process, plenty of time, and a two-stage approach for larger grants
- Guidance hub: Step-by-step resources on our website
- Support sessions: Drop-ins and one-to-one help
- Inclusive approach: Individuals can apply, community panel assessments, and tailored support for funded projects
Resources & development
Resource Hub programme Launching in 2026, shaped by your feedback. It will offer human support, funding advice, and marketing sessions, plus ongoing consultation and needs analysis to ensure it meets local priorities.
Space activation We’ve commissioned a study to unlock underused creative spaces. Starting December 2025, it will include consultation with local creatives. The report will be ready by spring 2026, and we’ll use its recommendations to activate spaces and plan future opportunities.
What’s next
Needs change, so we’ll keep listening. Our commitment is simple: listen, respond, and support Luton’s creative community.
Read the full Needs Analysis report here