Investing in Richmond upon Thames’ cultural landscape with new arts funding

Words and thoughts from Cllr John Coombs, Richmond’s Spokesperson for the Arts.

As we all know, public funding for the arts has faced significant cuts over the last decade. Funding for arts and cultural organisations across the UK has dropped by 18% between 2010 and 2023. This has created challenges for the cultural sector, and many local authorities, including our own, have faced increasing pressure to support the arts in new and innovative ways. 

But here in Richmond upon Thames, we’re committed to doing things differently. We are determined to ensure that our borough continues to be a place where creativity thrives, and artists find support to not only work but grow. We believe that artistic expression is a right, not a privilege, and that everyone, regardless of background, should have the opportunity to engage with, contribute to, and experience the arts. 

That’s why I’m excited to announce the launch of the Cultural Commissioning Fund for 2025-26. This new fund will provide up to £3,000 for small-scale cultural projects that push boundaries, engage underserved communities, and introduce fresh ways of working. Through exploring new forms of artistic expression, engaging young people, and empowering local voices, we want this fund to support projects that reflect the diversity of our borough and the unique stories that come from it. 

We want to encourage new ideas, new projects, and new partnerships because when creativity is allowed to flourish, the entire community benefits. By supporting projects that address the issues that matter most to our residents, we are helping to create a more inclusive, vibrant, and diverse cultural landscape and ensure that Richmond upon Thames is a place where art is not just for a few, but for everyone. 

The deadline to apply for the Challenge and Innovation Fund is Sunday 6 July 2025. 

Details about the fund and how to apply are on Richmond Arts Service webpages.