A new survey to understand the size, scale, and scope of the creative economy in York and North Yorkshire has been launched today by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority and the University of York.
The Creative Economy Census is designed to gather insights and experiences from more than 1,500 creative businesses across the region, as well as from freelance and self-employed creative professionals, and individuals working in creative roles across all types of organisations.
York and North Yorkshire is home to thousands of professionals working in creative businesses and roles (as defined by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport), including architecture, advertising, marketing, arts and crafts, design, film, TV, radio, photography, IT, publishing, museum and archive services, music, and performing arts.
The Combined Authority has partnered with the XR Stories team at the University of York to develop this survey. With their extensive research experience, the team will help ensure the survey provides a robust evidence base, offering deeper insights into the region’s creative economy. The data will also support the development of evidence-based strategies and interventions to further strengthen the sector. The survey asks professionals about their roles, funding and training, the barriers and opportunities they encounter, and what services and support could benefit them.
Once completed, the survey data will contribute to the creation of a new region-wide Creative Industries Strategy. This will include ways the Combined Authority can best support creative businesses to thrive and grow, ensuring that York and North Yorkshire remains an attractive and exciting place for creative professionals to live and work.
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:
“York and North Yorkshire is home to thousands of talented creatives but for the first time this new Creative Economy Census will give us the chance to hear directly from them.
“The insights we gather will fuel our Creative Industries Strategy, so we can tackle the barriers and unlock the skills, the opportunities and the growth potential this industry has.
“This work will strengthen our One Creative North initiative – a commitment I made with other Northern Mayors to supercharge our fantastic creative economy.
“If you are in the industry then make sure your voice is heard. I would encourage everyone to take part so we can help shape the future together.”
Damian Murphy, Director of XR Stories at the University of York, said:
“The census is a key element within a wider programme of work that XR Stories is undertaking to support the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority to develop a local growth plan. It aims to gather qualitative information about the businesses and individuals who work in our region’s creative economy, one of the areas identified by the Combined Authority as a high-growth sector. We encourage people to complete the survey, share information about their challenges and needs, and inform planning for future funding and support for people working in York and North Yorkshire.”
The survey takes an average of 20 minutes to complete, with a mandatory section lasting 10–20 minutes and optional sections that may take an additional 10–20 minutes depending on your responses. It can be accessed via the following link.