Public demands more arts funding as new government takes charge

New research reveals a significant rise in public desire for greater government investment in the arts, with music education and accessibility topping the list of priorities

As the UK adjusts to a new Prime Minister, fresh research suggests the public want the Government to go further in supporting the arts — and Londoners are among the most likely to say so.

Sarah Bardwell, RPO Managing Director: “This data shows an engaged public who understand the value of what we do and want to see it supported." | ©Sarah Louise Bennett

placeholder image — Sarah Bardwell, RPO Managing Director: “This data shows an engaged public who understand the value of what we do and want to see it supported." | ©Sarah Louise Bennett

A new survey published by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO), based on a nationally representative sample of 2,000 adults, found 87 per cent believe the Government should increase support for the arts. The RPO said this is up from 76 per cent in 2024, around the time of the last General Election.

London respondents stood out: 91 per cent said they wanted the Government to do more. Those under 25 were even more emphatic, with 93 per cent calling for increased backing — and the research said these groups were the most vocal in wanting more support for arts organisations that work with schools and local communities.

On priorities, 27 per cent ranked making the arts more accessible to young people from all backgrounds top (up from 24 per cent in June 2024). A quarter of those surveyed (25 per cent) wanted more funding for music and singing lessons in primary schools (up from 21 per cent in 2024), while another 25 per cent favoured more grants and scholarships for talented young artists (up from 23 per cent in 2024).

Respondents also highlighted funding for multimedia arts projects (13 per cent), tax incentives for donors (11%) and initiatives to incentivise corporate sponsorship (10 per cent). For nightlife, 21 per cent wanted a reduced rate of VAT on concert tickets and 19 per cent backed more support for grassroots and mid-size music venues. Support for increased government funding for the Arts Council rose to 18 per cent (from 15 per cent in 2024).

More than half (52 per cent) picked UK music as Britain’s greatest export, and 12 per cent called for greater support for arts organisations that tour overseas.