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Research

Research

We review and summarise existing academic evidence so its insights can be more widely understood and applied.

We convene research partnerships and consortiums and help to shape research practice. Our approach is objective and people-centred

Castleford Roman Festival, Wakefield Council. Photo: Sarah Zagni

We believe that rigorous research of what works and what needs to change should underpin cultural policy and practice.  

Through our engaged research process, we consult a diverse range of practitioners, researchers and policymakers to ensure our work is as useful and relevant as possible. 

Person wearing mask looks at Hebrew manuscript exhibits
Hebrew Manuscripts at British Library. Photo: David Jensen

Our research digests

There is a wealth of research about cultural practice and policy. Yet much of it is hidden behind paywalls or contained within lengthy academic papers.  

We review and summarise existing research so its insights are more accessible. In doing so, we take a rigorous, transparent approach and respond to the needs of cultural practitioners and policymakers.  

Our research digests surface learning across the themes of: 

  • culture, health and wellbeing;
  • cultural participation; and
  • culture and place. 

Collaborative research

Between 2021 and 2024, we ran an exploratory programme called Collaborate. Collaborate supported research partnerships between UK cultural sector practitioners and academic researchers. It was designed to foster more equitable and ethical research practices. 

We are now sharing our learning with funders, practitioners and academics to enable others to develop research partnerships with real impact. 

Two people have a conversation while sat at a table filled with crafts and painting tools.
Craft Council - Leather Making Workshop with Deborette Clarke. Photo: Gene Kavanagh
A researcher takes part in a consultation at Skippko Arts, talking around a table with four participants who are crafting together and laughing while chatting.
Skippko - Arts Team Consultation. Photo: Nicki Taylor

Practical research resources 

We commission and curate how-to guides to help inform research practice.  

In doing this, we seek out diverse voices and highlight creative methodologies which are robust and people-centred.  

The impact of Covid-19 

Throughout 2020 and 2021, we led a national consortium to investigate the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the cultural sector. Our findings were shared in real-time through reports, policy briefings, podcasts and a large-scale online festival to help inform responses and interventions.  

We published our Culture in Crisis report in February 2022. We have since published our first book to explore and share the implications for policy and practice. 

Family wearing masks watch an activity
Event at Left Bank Leeds. Photo: Sally Molineaux
Silhouette of three people looking at a blue neon light artwork
Light Night at the University of Leeds. Photo: University of Leeds

Making Data Work

Making Data Work was a national research project responding to the crisis the cultural sector faces in harnessing and using its data to convey its impact. 

We shared the project’s findings through a full report and an executive summary, making practical recommendations about how better data can lead to better policy. 

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