The relief that today’s @dcms #CultureRecoveryFund announcements have brought to cultural organisations across the south west has been so evident. (1/7)

I’m pleased that 172 organisations have shared more than £33 million to stabilise their businesses and further their preparations for reopening, whenever that might be. (2/7)

It’s great to be investing so broadly across the south west – not just in the big cities, but also in locations from Frome to Havant and Petersfield to Helston; and coastal towns such as Lyme Regis, Shanklin, Sidmouth and Newquay. (3/7)

I hope these awards will enable recipients to employ freelancers and individual artists, who I’d also encourage to explore our Project Grants and Developing Your Creative Practice programmes. (Details here: https://www.artscouncil.org.uk/covid19  ) (4/7)

More announcements to follow in the next few weeks as we work through the remaining applications to the grants, loans and capital programmes that make up the #CultureRecoveryFund (5/7)

In the meantime, our doors are open and, as ever, please feel able to get in touch if a chat might be useful or reassuring. (6/7)

Long months ahead, no doubt. But hopefully today brings the sector a level of stability from which to realise our future ambitions. Wishing everyone well. (7/7)