Culture Connections

Cultural Connections

Background

Between January - April 2025, Well Doncaster facilitated a total of 939 community conversations with residents of all ages and demographics, and attended 129 community groups and events across the city. The aim of the conversations was to gain a more deep understanding of what Arts & Culture mean to the people of Doncaster, and what role it plays in the city, streets and communities where people live, work and play.

The conversations were thematically analysed to understand the key themes and priorities of residents regarding arts and culture. Recommendations were made for each locality of Doncaster and for children and young people.

You can read the full report here: Telling Our Story - Arts and Culture Report

Recommendations are highlighted below -

Central

Enhance Multicultural Initiatives

• Promote and support multicultural events and activities to strengthen community bonds and central understanding.

Promote Arts and Culture

• Increase funding and support for arts and cultural venues to enrich residents' lives and foster community engagement.

Expand Opportunities for Youth

• Create more opportunities for children and young people to engage with arts and cultural activities, ensuring these offerings are well-promoted and accessible.

North

Promote Historical Heritage

• Increase promotion and celebration of Doncaster's historical sites and events, including its mining heritage and local history groups.

Support Mental Health Initiatives

• Develop and support arts and culture programmes that focus on mental health and wellbeing.

Enhance Community Engagement

• Encourage and support local art clubs, community projects and family friendly events to foster a sense of belonging.

South

Enhance Community Engagement

• Support and expand community spaces and local clubs to foster social connections and cultural engagement.

Promote Heritage

• Develop initiatives to celebrate and preserve Doncaster’s rich history and heritage, such as local history festivals and storytelling events.

Support Creative Hobbies

• Provide resources and opportunities for residents to engage in creative hobbies, such as arts and crafts workshops and photography clubs.

East

Improve Accessibility

• Address accessibility barriers by providing affordable transit options, outreach programs, and physical adaptations for mobility. Consider offering more free and accessible events.

Promote Heritage

• Develop initiatives such as local history festivals, storytelling events, and museums dedicated to coal mining to engage younger generations and honour the community’s legacy.

Support Local Artists

• Amplify local artists and support creative urban expressions like street art, which resonate strongly with residents and reflect the community’s unique stories.

Children & Young People

Support Creative Activities

• Provide more opportunities for CYP to engage in creative activities, such as arts and crafts workshops and music lessons.

Enhance Outdoor Spaces

• Maintain and improve parks and green spaces to ensure they remain accessible and enjoyable for CYP.

Foster Community Engagement

• Support community events and activities that bring CYP together and provide spaces for socializing.