Survey launched to help understand impact of Covid-19 pandemic on South Yorkshire’s cultural sector

The study, which has been created by the University of Sheffield and councils across the region, aims to create a snapshot of the immediate impact of the current crisis on festivals, venues, events and cultural organisations in Sheffield, Barnsley, Rotherham and Doncaster.

It is being led by the University’s director of city and culture, Professor Vanessa Toulmin, and is looking to estimate the financial impact, changes to visitor numbers, and how organisations have adapted to deliver events in alternative ways.

The data will then be used to help identify the support that is needed to help the creative and cultural sector recover once the crisis is over.

Professor Vanessa Toulmin said: “The region is home to a wonderful, eclectic mix of creatives, many of them small and independent, who all contribute to the vibrancy and individuality of South Yorkshire. “Working with Sheffield, Barnsley, Doncaster and Rotherham Councils, we want to understand how the current situation is affecting the sector and then use the data to look at how the sector can be supported to recover. “I am confident that audiences will return to the region’s performance venues and festivals and, as a University rooted in the city, we want to do what we can to support that.”

Many events have been cancelled or postponed due to social distancing rules and the imposed lockdown restrictions leaving the country’s culture sector, as well as others, struggling to stay afloat.

Leanne Buchan, head of creative programming and engagement at Rotherham Council added: “Many of our artists and cultural organisations are small and fleet of foot relying on a great number of events and festivals throughout the year.

“This research will help to provide important evidence to build the case for additional support for one of the fastest growing sectors in the economy and prepare the sector for its vital role in the recovery and rehabilitation of our communities post Covid-19.”

There are four different cultural organisation, festival or venue surveys for each region – Sheffield, Barnsley, Doncaster, and Rotherham.

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