Several Leeds Venues Receive Share of £257M Government Arts Funding

Several Leeds venues have received a share of the £257 Million invested in government arts funding. "This funding is a vital boost for the theatres, music venues, museums and cultural organisations that form the soul of our nation," said Dowden in a statement about the money, which will come out of the wider £1.57bn Cultural Recovery Fund. "It will protect these special places, save jobs and help the culture sector's recovery."

Many music venues and cultural organisations have been under threat of closure due to the financial impact of coronavirus. Others to receive grants in this tranche also include Mint Club, Hyde Park Book Club, and the Yorkshire Sculpture Park near Wakefield, as well as other music venues like The Brudenell Social Club.

The work of the Music Venue Trust has been exemplary, advising venues in a plethora of ways to ensure people could gain funding. The work of venues and party-goers to not be silenced, to keep campaigning, sharing posts and signing petitions is what has helped so many gain this funding. This is without doubt a victory, but there is still so much to do to ensure that venues, musicians and creatives voices are heard.