Oldham Council has launched the Young Creative Producers Programme (YCPP) to offer young people aged 16-25 paid work experience and training within the borough's cultural sector.
The programme is funded through Arts Council England's National Lottery Place Partnership Projects. Each participant will receive a £3,000 bursary and complete a 200-hour placement with local cultural organisations, alongside an intensive training programme delivered by cultural sector specialists.
What the programme offers
Participants will gain practical skills for arts careers and accredited learning opportunities. The scheme aims to address talent drain from Oldham, create clearer pathways into creative work, and ensure young people help design and deliver the borough's cultural activity.
The council says it will prioritise opportunities for young people from under-represented communities to increase equality, diversity and inclusion across the cultural sector.
Partner organisations
Oldham Council's Heritage, Libraries and Arts Service is leading the programme. Global Grooves will oversee delivery, working with Oldham Coliseum, Oldham Theatre Workshop, Northern Roots, Peshkar, Oldham Sixth Form College, Mahdlo and other cultural and education partners.
Placements will cover theatre, music, festivals, heritage, digital inclusion, environmental arts and community engagement.
Council backing
Jodie Barber, Assistant Director for Youth and Communities at Oldham Council, said the funding represented "a significant investment in Oldham's young people and our cultural future" and would help participants "thrive" while strengthening the cultural sector's sustainable and inclusive practices.
Jen Cleary, Director North West at Arts Council England, said the programme would enable young people to develop skills and explore creative careers.
