Union launches campaign against Creative Scotland cuts

Performing arts and entertainment trade union Equity has launched a campaign against the Scottish Government’s decision to cut funding for arts and culture, labelling the move "economically illiterate".

The Scottish Government plans to cut Creative Scotland’s budget by £7m – a 10% decrease – in 2023/24. 

Creative Scotland has responded by saying it will go into its reserves in order to maintain the current levels of financial support it provides arts and culture organisations in Scotland.

Equity is calling for the cut to be reversed and is asking supporters to write to their local Member of Scottish Parliament to raise the issue in parliament.

“Lets be clear, with inflation into double digits, this isn’t a 10% cut to arts funding. It is much worse than that,” National Officer for Equity Adam Adnyana said.

“These cuts should not be used to justify low pay offers, or the end of stable work for performers and creatives. We call on the Scottish Government to revisit these economically illiterate cuts.
 
“And we also give fair warning to employers that we will not allow you to use this as an excuse to degrade terms, conditions, or pay offers. No tactic will be off the table.”