The Welsh Government is investing £53 million to help Wales’ diverse culture sector deal with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

The fund will be delivered jointly with the Arts Council of Wales and has a “cultural contract” at its heart to help the sector emerge from the pandemic stronger than ever.

Today’s announcement comes on top of the £18 million portfolio package provided in April, which was delivered by the Welsh Government, Arts Council of Wales and Sport Wales.

The Cultural Recovery Fund will help protect organisations, individuals and jobs in the culture, including:

• Theatres
• Galleries
• Music venues, businesses and individuals
• Heritage sites
• Local museums, libraries and archive services
• Events and festivals
• Independent cinemas

Welsh Labour Finance Minister Rebecca Evans said:

“We have been working closely with the sector to understand the challenges it’s facing and the level of support required. The package we have announced today demonstrates we have listened to the sector and provided the support it needs to survive, and to thrive post-pandemic.”

The cultural contract will build on the Welsh Government’s existing economic contract of fair work and pay and sustainability and address areas such including:

• Board diversity
• Retained staff to support wider initiatives
• Social prescribing
• Health and arts initiatives
• Environmental sustainability