Increased Arts Council funding for Studio 3 Arts

Here at Studio 3 Arts we’re celebrating news of increased funding and support from Arts Council England, with a 40% uplift on funding for our 2023-26 programme. 

The announcement of Studio 3 Arts’ successful bid came on Friday 4th November, when Arts Council England named the 990 organisations to receive National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) funding.

The grant recognises Studio 3 Arts’ extensive programme for Barking and Dagenham and beyond, providing opportunities for families, young people, adults, and elders to get involved in the arts. Through creative participation, volunteering, and as an audience member, Studio 3 Arts create transformative experiences for local people and forge strategic partnerships to reach those most in need.

Awarded an ‘Outstanding’ status for diversity, the Arts Council commended Studio 3 Arts for an inclusive programming and for working in an understanding, welcoming way with many different people and communities across the borough.

As we prepare to officially reopen our Barking venue following a major redevelopment, increased funding will help us bring ground-breaking public performances from a diverse range of local, national and international artists to the borough’s new arts centre.

Continued Arts Council support means the ongoing success of flagship programmes such as Big Deal, which offers free dance and drama to young people. The funding uplift will enable us to reach more people and increase impact. Future plans will respond to the needs of local people, supporting them through all stages of their lives, and develop pathways to employment for young people.

Embedded in the local community, we are most excited about how the increased financial support will allow partnership work to flourish with local organisations and community groups on future shared projects.

As a charity we depend on funding from many trusts, organisations and individuals. Ongoing support from our key partners such as Arts Council England and the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham is crucial to our ongoing success and for helping the arts thrive in the borough.

Chair of the Board, Karen West-Whylie said, “We are delighted that Studio 3 Arts has been recognised for the contribution it makes to the arts, culture and local community. It is testament to the dedication of all our staff, volunteers and participants that bring our work to life. We are grateful for the increase in funds and being able to realise our future ambitions. Many arts organisations didn’t receive funding, and we’d like to acknowledge support for those who may have not been successful”.