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6 Key Themes

1. Improving opportunities for young people

Young people are important and need to be aware that their views and interests are being represented and influence the overall development and provision of cultural services. The ability to participate in cultural and arts activities is fundamental to their personal development. It improves their cognitive and social skills, it raises self-esteem and self-confidence and gives them a sense of belonging, all of which encourage participation in the community in later life.

2. Improving access to leisure-time facilities for all

It is important to ensure that barriers to participation (both in terms of physical and intellectual access) and discrimination on any basis are identified and eliminated from cultural, arts and leisure activities. We need to raise awareness of the opportunities to participate in leisure and cultural activities and provide advice and expertise to support the development and encourage the provision of better cultural opportunities within our communities.

3. Reducing the fear of anti-social behaviour, crime and engendering citizenship

Crime and the fear of crime within our communities are an increasing concern. It constitutes a barrier to participation in cultural activities but, conversely, evidence shows that cultural services play an important role in combating and reducing the fear of crime.

4. Leisure, arts and cultural events can provide a sense of belonging and pride.

We need to engender community spirit and encourage people to become active citizens through leisure, arts and cultural activities. In doing so we must continue to provide support to the many volunteers who provide the backbone of delivery for so much of the cultural activity within the Sandwell Borough. We need to provide networks and services through which knowledge and skills can be passed on within the community.

5. Improving health and well-being

There is widespread evidence to show that regular participation in physical recreation reduces the risk of coronary disease, strokes, obesity and osteoporosis. Poor health is also associated with social exclusion and cultural services can contribute to bringing people closer together. Cultural opportunities encourage not only physical well-being but also psychological well–being by engendering enhanced personal motivation, greater confidence, sociability and self esteem and by reducing stress, fear, isolation and anxiety.

6. Contributing to the creation of an attractive, sustainable environment

A high quality natural and built environment is important for the well being of residents but it also plays a significant role in contributing to the local economy by

attracting inward investment and regeneration. Centrepoint’s long term vision involves the securing of a new centrally located venue for the local area in a vibrant, exciting and open access building.