A NEW creative programme has been launched to boost creative skills.
ReNEW, designed for the North-East Worcestershire area, aims to build skills and increase participation in the arts.
The project launch took place at Rubicon’s Boathouse Café in Arrow Valley Country Park, with Bromsgrove District Council supporting the Cultural Compact for North East Worcestershire.
Councillor Shirley Webb, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, leisure and culture, said: "ReNEW marks a real step forward for creativity in North‑East Worcestershire.
"By listening to residents and working closely with our partners, we’re creating a programme that is welcoming, ambitious and rooted in local stories."
The event featured a youth-led performance by Highly Sprung Performance, in partnership with local schools and colleges, notably HoW College, Waseley Hills School, Arrow Vale and Chadsgrove School.
Petro Nicolaides, chair of the Cultural Compact, said: "This programme is built on collaboration and on the belief that everyone’s story matters.
"Yesterday’s event reflected that spirit beautifully.
"We’re proud to champion a project that will build skills, confidence and connection across our area."
ReNEW aims to reduce barriers to involvement with creative activity, responding directly to feedback from residents who want more informal, welcoming and accessible creative spaces – places where creativity can become part of daily life.
Liz Johnson, Midlands area director at Arts Council England, said: "We’re proud to invest £550,000 into Bromsgrove and Redditch through our National Lottery funded Place Partnership programme.
"This project is rooted in local identity.
"It will bring communities together and give young people opportunities to learn new skills through training, mentorship and practical industry experience."
Applications are now open for the Sharing Stories strand of the programme. ReNEW is also currently seeking young people aged 16–25 to join its Creative Producers scheme - an opportunity to gain hands‑on experience, collaborate with professional artists, and build new skills and confidence.
More information about the project, tender opportunities, and the Creative Producers programme can be found at the Bromsgrove District Council website.
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