Help shape culture in North Somerset
7th July 2025
North Somerset Council is encouraging local people and cultural organisations to get involved in Citizens for Culture – a new citizens’ assembly that will set out a shared vision for arts and culture across the region.
The assembly is being organised by Culture West, a partnership of councils and cultural bodies from North Somerset, Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset and South Gloucestershire. Its aim is simple: to place residents’ voices at the heart of a long-term Cultural Delivery Plan that will guide investment and activity from 2026 onwards.
How the process works
- 15,000 invitation letters are being posted this month to households across the West of England.
- Residents who receive an invite have until Sunday, 14 July 2025 to register their interest.
- In August 2025, a representative mix of citizens will be selected and onboarded.
- The assembly formally opens on Saturday, 14 September 2025, ahead of the International Day of Democracy on 15 September.
- The group’s recommendations will inform a Cultural Delivery Plan, due for publication in November 2025.
- Delivery of the plan will begin from 2026.
Become an Associate or Ally
Local cultural organisations and practitioners can lend their support by signing up as Associates of Citizens for Culture. Residents who simply care about culture can sign up as Allies – a quick way to show that arts and heritage matter to everyone.
Sign up now: Citizens for Culture – Get Involved form docs.google.com
Completing the form takes around 10 – 15 minutes and lets you choose how you’d like to be involved.
Reaching people who face barriers
We are keen to hear from groups and individuals who might find it harder to respond to the postal invitations – for example, people with limited internet access, disabilities, language barriers or caring responsibilities. If you work with or represent anyone who could benefit from extra support, please email culture@northsomerset.gov.uk and we can arrange printed registration forms or alternative formats.
Why your voice matters
Cultural activity enriches our communities, supports wellbeing and boosts the local economy. By taking part in Citizens for Culture, you can:
- Shape priorities such as funding, venues and programming.
- Highlight barriers to taking part in the arts.
- Champion inclusion so that culture reflects the diversity of our region.
Councillor [Name], Executive Member for Culture, said:
“This assembly is a unique chance for residents to say what culture means to them and how we can make it accessible to all. I encourage everyone who receives an invitation – and anyone working in the sector – to get involved.”
Key dates at a glance
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 16 June 2025 | Public awareness campaign launches |
| June 2025 | 15,000 invitation letters sent |
| 14 July 2025 | Registration deadline for invited residents |
| August 2025 | Selection and onboarding of assembly members |
| 14 September 2025 | Assembly opens |
| November 2025 | Cultural Delivery Plan published |
| 2026 onwards | Plan delivered |
Stay up to date by following @InNorthSomerset on social media and visiting the In North Somerset news pages.
