Over 15,000 children in Sunderland live in poverty; child poverty is amongst the most pressing issues for our city. Growing up in poverty makes it much more difficult to enjoy an inclusive childhood; restricting choices, opportunities and ability to participate fully. Access to arts and cultural activities can have positive, life-changing impacts for children and young people. Taking part supports education, wellbeing and employability, but too often those with greatest need, have least access.

With your support, we will ensure our cultural programme reaches more children and young people from low-income families. Your support will enable us to expand our children and family programme to offer more free and low-cost creative activities at Arts Centre Washington, National Glass Centre, Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art and Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens. This aims to remove barriers and increase engagement by families least able to access cultural activities.