Culture shock for resort's teenagers

Culture Secretary Karen Bradley has announced the first pilots of the Cultural Citizens Programme will be launched in September in Blackpool, Liverpool, Birmingham, and Barking and Dagenham.

The programme targets disadvantaged communities where fewer people currently visit museums, galleries or the theatre.

Working with Curious Minds in Liverpool and Blackpool, the programme will give 200 11-to-14-year-olds the opportunity to engage with cultural organisations, public art, heritage sites and arts festivals.

Young people will work with specially trained culture coaches to plan extra-curricular visits to festivals, theatres, galleries and museums such as FACT, Liverpool Everyman, Tate Liverpool and Museum of Liverpool. They will also review and share their experiences to achieve a Bronze Arts Award.

Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Karen Bradley said: “Arts and culture are an integral part of British society, it boosts tourism, improves our wellbeing and provides a source of local pride and identity.

“We want to ensure that it is available to everyone, no matter what their background.

“The Cultural Citizens Programme will open doors for hundreds of young people across the country, so they can enjoy our fantastic arts and culture scene.”