Lewes constituency receives nearly £500k lifeline grant from Government

The Charleston Trust, Ditchling Museum, So Sussex and Sussex Events Ltd are just some of the 1,385 cultural and creative organisations across the country receiving urgently needed support.

£257 million of investment has been announced as part of the very first round of the Culture Recovery Fund grants programme being administered by Arts Council England.

Further rounds of funding in the cultural and heritage sector are due to be announced over the coming weeks.

The Charleston Trust is to receive £249,995, Ditchling Museum £98,000, So Sussex £92,500, and Sussex Events Ltd £50,000.

Lewes MP Maria Caulfield said “The arts are a vital part of our economy and our lives so I am pleased that the government have made this funding available to arts and cultural organisations across the country.

“Here in the Lewes Constituency it is great news that four of our local arts and cultural organisations will receive much needed support in these difficult times.”

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “This funding is a vital boost for the theatres, music venues, museums and cultural organisations that form the soul of our nation. It will protect these special places, save jobs and help the culture sector’s recovery.

“These places and projects are cultural beacons the length and breadth of the country. This unprecedented investment in the arts is proof this government is here for culture, with further support to come in the days and weeks ahead so that the culture sector can bounce back strongly.”

Sir Nicholas Serota, chairman of Arts Council England, added: “Theatres, museums, galleries, dance companies and music venues bring joy to people and life to our cities, towns and villages. This life-changing funding will save thousands of cultural spaces loved by local communities and international audiences. Further funding is still to be announced and we are working hard to support our sector during these challenging times.”