New data tool enables English museums to explore access and investment in their area

Arts Council England (ACE) has launched an interactive tool that enables museums and other users to see what culture, investment and creativity looks like in their region or area.

The Culture and Place Data Explorer uses more than 200 data indicators to provide a picture of where public funding is reaching and where there are opportunities for improved access and engagement.

Based on a Google Maps interface, the tool enables users to produce reports and dashboards of local authority areas with local, regional and national comparisons. Data indicators include public funding, cultural engagement data, the visitor economy and local cultural infrastructure. User can pull up local figures from a wide range of demographics including child poverty, housing, health and wellbeing, and transport.

“As stewards of public funds, we believe that transparency is paramount,” said Laura Dyer, the deputy chief executive for places, engagement and libraries at ACE. “The wealth of data provided by the Culture and Place Data Explorer will provide access to vital information that will allow us, our partners and the public, to understand both where our funding is currently allocated, and where our engagement could be improved.

“The tool will also provide easy-to-access details of the demographics, challenges and opportunities facing the communities we work with. This will help us and our partners to understand how to target development work and reflect on our collective impact in places.”

The arts council and the Local Government Association have jointly commissioned the University of Warwick to update the Joint Cultural Needs Assessment guidelines, to reference how the new explorer tool can be used. The guidelines help creative and cultural organisations respond to the needs of their local communities, with a view to reducing inequalities and obstacles to participation in arts and culture.

Liz Green, chair of the Local Government Association’s culture, tourism and sport board, said: “Cultural services help improve communities and boost local economies, through driving high street footfall, supporting creative industries and encouraging visitors. Using the best evidence to design and focus this work has never been more important, as we make sure every penny counts and reaches those who would not otherwise be able to experience the benefits of cultural and creative experiences.

“I am delighted that we have been able to work with Arts Council England to refresh and update the Joint Cultural Needs Assessment, which will help all councils as they build partnerships to create positive cultural and creative experiences in their places.”

The explorer tool was created with Five10Twelve, using Local Insight as provided by the Oxford Consultants for Social Inclusion.