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Contributing over £100bn to the UK economy, the government highlights the high-growth value of the creative industries in their sector plan. But as Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Culture, Media and Sport Anna Sabine reminds us, its impact is as social as it is financial
The UK’s creative industries are one of our greatest national assets, a sector that not only fuels economic growth but also strengthens communities, nurtures talent and brings people together. Worth over £100bn to the economy and employing more than two million people, creativity is one of Britain’s defining strengths. But its value extends far beyond economics; it’s about connection, identity and belonging.
In my own constituency of Frome and East Somerset, I’ve seen firsthand how creativity can transform communities. Frome, a market town with a thriving cultural scene, has become a model of what local collaboration can achieve. Its markets, arts venues and festivals bring people together, boost small businesses and give local artists and performers a platform to shine. The Cheese and Grain, for example, is not just a music venue; it’s a social anchor that hosts everything from gigs to community meetings, embodying the way culture can bridge generations and build civic pride.
Across the country, similar stories are unfolding. In cities, towns and villages alike, community arts groups, local theatres, choirs and creative hubs are helping to tackle isolation, improve wellbeing and foster local identity. In rural areas, where access to transport, digital infrastructure and funding is often limited, these initiatives can make a crucial difference, providing spaces for people to connect and opportunities for young people to explore new possibilities.
That’s why, as the Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Culture, Media and Sport, I’m determined to make the case for proper investment in the creative industries, not just in London, but across every region of the UK. We must ensure that music hubs, arts education, local venues and creative entrepreneurs have the resources they need to thrive. Every community deserves access to culture, and every child deserves the chance to discover their creativity.
“Our creative industries are the envy of the world”
We also need to think about the future of the workforce. The creative sector depends on a pipeline of skilled, diverse young people, which is why arts education must be protected, not sidelined. When children learn an instrument, act in a play or take part in a design project, they’re not just learning to perform; they’re developing confidence, problem-solving, empathy and teamwork. These are the skills that underpin innovation in every part of the economy.
Our creative industries are the envy of the world, from film and television to gaming, design, fashion and music. But their strength lies in their roots: in communities like those in Somerset, where creativity grows from collaboration and a shared sense of purpose. In my constituency, we have some of the top music engineers in the world and supporting their development means investing not only in our economy but in the well-being and unity of our society.
Creativity is how we tell our stories, understand one another and imagine a better future. It’s one of Britain’s greatest strengths, and it’s time we treated it as such.