This insight paper explores how devolution and increased local decision-making are affecting independent museums and galleries across the UK. Drawing on perspectives from sector leaders, it examines the relationship between cultural organisations and local government, including the opportunities and challenges created by changing governance structures, funding pressures and regional priorities. The report highlights the civic, educational and wellbeing contributions of independent museums and galleries, and considers how they can be more effectively supported and integrated within devolved cultural policy frameworks.

This research paper examines how different legal structures and business models support organisations across the UK’s creative, cultural and heritage sectors. Drawing on case studies and policy analysis, it explores the opportunities and challenges facing freelancers, SMEs and hybrid enterprises, and considers how existing support mechanisms respond to their diverse needs. The report highlights the importance of tailored, evidence-based interventions and stronger local decision-making to ensure creativity is fully embedded within regional economic development and growth strategies.

This insight paper explores how combined authorities and local authorities are working together to support the creative, cultural and heritage ecosystem within England’s evolving devolution framework. Drawing on perspectives from regional and local government leaders, it examines approaches to collaboration, strategic planning, investment, data and public engagement across different tiers of governance. The report highlights the importance of strong local–regional partnerships and considers how policy, capacity and coordination can help embed culture more effectively within devolved decision-making and place-based development.

This insight paper examines how citizens can play a greater role in shaping local cultural decision-making across the UK. Drawing on examples of participatory governance and community-led practice, it explores approaches that strengthen public involvement in cultural planning, investment and accountability. The report considers how local voice can be embedded more effectively within devolved governance systems, supporting more inclusive, democratic and community-centred cultural policymaking.

This insight paper examines how local cultural strategies can support creativity, participation and investment within the UK’s evolving devolution landscape. Drawing on examples from local authorities across the UK, it explores how place-based cultural strategies can bring together public bodies, cultural organisations and communities around shared priorities for growth and inclusion. The report highlights the role of cultural strategies in strengthening local leadership, civic engagement and long-term planning, helping to embed culture at the heart of local and regional development.

This insight paper examines how devolution and local decision-making are evolving across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Drawing on perspectives from across the four nations, it explores how different governance arrangements, funding systems and civic traditions shape the distribution of power and responsibility at local and regional levels. The report considers the implications for culture and highlights the need for more coherent, participatory and place-based approaches to cultural decision-making within the UK’s changing constitutional landscape.