Doncaster’s pioneering creative learning model is at risk without urgent funding

A new impact report published by darts (Doncaster’s Centre of Excellence for Creative Health & Learning), Cast Performance Venue and City of Doncaster Council’s Early Intervention and Prevention Service highlights the profound difference its work has made to disadvantaged young children and communities across Doncaster, while issuing a stark warning: without additional funding, this vital work cannot continue.

The report showcases how targeted investment and partnership have delivered measurable change — improving lives, strengthening communities, and addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing families with young children today.

These outcomes reflect a model that works — combining expertise, community insight, and sustained engagement to deliver meaningful, lasting change.

Responding to an identified need following the Covid-19 pandemic and its ongoing impacts, Tuneful Chatter has been funded by Arts Council England’s Place Partnerships Programme and supported by Doncaster Council.

This three year funding enabled delivery in 16 settings including Family Hubs, Nurseries, Schools and arts centres. Activity focused on families most in need – those living in disadvantaged areas of Doncaster where 1 in 3 children is living in poverty.

The report, written by Sheffield Hallam University, concludes:‘”Overall, Tuneful Chatter demonstrates that creative programmes can support early childhood development not only through arts participation, but by changing adult behaviour, strengthening relationships and embedding cultural organisations within early years support systems.”

Despite these achievements, there is currently only secured funding to continue this work in one Family Hub. Without immediate investment Tuneful Chatter will cease and hundreds of families will miss out on positive weekly activities that improve outcomes for children. This situation reflects a broader challenge across the sector, where organisations are increasingly required to demonstrate impact to sustain funding, yet face growing uncertainty as traditional funding sources diminish.

“We know this approach works. We have the evidence, the expertise, and the demand. What we don’t have is the funding to continue,” said Sarah Eastaff – Director of Creative Learning at darts. “It is deeply frustrating to see proven, impactful work come to an end not because it isn’t needed — but because it isn’t funded.”

Tuneful Chatter staff are calling on funders, partners, and policymakers to act now to protect and sustain this work. To read the summary and full report go to: https://wearedarts.org.uk/tuneful-chatter/