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.