Being part of culture in Chelmsford

Our vision is that Chelmsford is a place where people and communities lead change, shaping a creative and inclusive future together.
Powered by people. Driven by creativity.

At the heart of Culture Chelmsford is a belief that everyone should have a voice in shaping the place they live. We’re working in partnership to ensure creativity is part of everyday life, where new ideas are welcomed, and where communities make meaningful change.

We do this by putting people at the heart of city-wide decisions, investing in local projects and events, celebrating diverse voices and supporting bold thinking.

We are an independent charity working with others to lead positive change. By building strong partnerships and offering clear direction, we aim to make our city inclusive, vibrant and reflective of the diversity and energy of local people - transforming the cultural life of our area.

How will we do this?

We work with communities, young people and the creative sector to influence our city’s future and we are supported by organisations that value the importance of people at the heart of change.

Which organisations are involved?

Alongside individuals in communities across the district, we work with Chelmsford CIty Council, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford For You and Chelmsford College to make a difference together. These organisations represent different sectors from business, public services, education, culture and community.

Why are we all involved?

Together, we are committed to expanding Chelmsford's cultural landscape, driven by the voices and vision of our local communities. We believe that investing in creativity is not only essential for economic growth but also shapes the identity of our city and enriches the lives of everyone who calls it home.

Investment in the area’s creative ambitions requires us to be innovative, open to change and provide practical, strategic and financial support.

The difference we make together

Together, we create lasting change that impacts everyone in Chelmsford. Here are just a few ways our collaboration will make a difference:

- Shaping civic life: We make the best use of our resources and embed culture and creativity in civic life. We provide cultural leadership and, by linking to investment and opportunities, help smaller groups and individuals to design and deliver creative projects that make a difference in their community.

- Championing young people: We work with SPARK! a group of young changemakers to open up new opportunities for young people, creative individuals, education providers, businesses and the wider community. We listen to young people and help build their confidence, resilience and life skills through creativity. We work collaboratively to ensure young people have authentic opportunities to shape the creative future of Chelmsford.

- Attracting visitors and investment: A thriving cultural scene can attract visitors, businesses, students and talent to Chelmsford. By supporting our creative industry, events and festivals, Chelmsford will become a cultural hub that draws in people from outside the area, stimulating the local economy and opening up new opportunities for local artists.

- Culture on our doorstep: Cultural experiences must be accessible, particularly for people from diverse backgrounds or who experience barriers to taking part. We work with local people to create opportunities that reflect the needs and interests of different communities across the district that can improve well-being, bring people together and foster a sense of pride.

How can I find out more?

If you want to find out more about Culture Chelmsford, our communities or partners that we work with please join our mailing list here.

If you’re interested in becoming one of our supporters to help us drive change in Chelmsford, please get in touch with our Fundraising Manager, Emma Barrow here.

If you’re interested in how you can help shape our city’s cultural and creative decisions, get in touch with us. You might be interested in one of the following groups:

Spark! - if you’re aged 13-25 and you want to get involved in shaping decisions about the city’s creative future sign up here

Ignite - if you’re a creative professional and want to join the network of creatives in the district find out more here

Cultural Connectors - if you are a trusted member of your community and want to influence creative decision making join our group here.