Reach Inclusive Arts has been awarded the funding through an Arts Council England National Lottery Project Grant. The money will support a 15-month programme aimed at widening access to the arts for people often excluded from traditional creative spaces.
Operations Manager Jeni Burchell described the award as a pivotal moment for the organisation.
“This will be the second stage of our research and development… it’s really transformational for the organisation.”
She said the ambition goes beyond maintaining current activity.
“It really puts inclusive arts on the map in Swindon… but it also means that we can really amplify what we offer, so that we can have more people with disabilities accessing the arts.”
The programme will increase opportunities for people with learning and physical disabilities, mental ill health, sensory impairments and those experiencing isolation. Activities will be delivered directly in communities, rather than relying solely on traditional venues.
Reach Inclusive Arts was founded more than 40 years ago and works with participants aged from 16 to 97. Over four decades, it has become an established part of Swindon’s cultural landscape.
The charity has delivered professional-standard productions and exhibitions with partners including the Wyvern Theatre, which Burchell described as “absolutely instrumental” to its growth.
Volunteer Summer spoke about her journey within the organisation.
“I started as a volunteer… and now I’m kind of stuck with Reach [joke]… but I really enjoy every second of it.”
She said her involvement quickly developed into a leadership role.
“My first one was definitely going on tour… I’ve never done anything like that… I became the group’s leader… and created a whole performance.”
Summer also highlighted the importance of inclusive spaces.
“It gives people who have SEN a place to go when they don’t feel like they can be accepted in this world.”
Participant Reece Oliver said the experience has changed how he views drama.
“It’s made me want to get into drama a lot more… it’s more fun now.”
He added: “Probably how to work with people… and how to do drama a bit more.”
The funding will support several initiatives over the next 15 months, including the return of the ‘Big Hat Cabaret’, the development of a new Festival of Inclusion, expanded community-based programmes and workshops and increased opportunities to collaborate with professional artists.
Reach Inclusive Arts is part of the Swindon Culture Collective and has aligned the investment with Swindon’s 2029 City of Culture ambitions.
Activity funded through the grant is expected to begin in the coming months. Further details for participants, artists and volunteers are due to be announced.
