A Culture Act
for Scotland 

Ahead of the 2026 election, we call on all political parties in Scotland to support a Culture Act in the next Scottish Parliament.

Culture Counts is Scotland’s network of arts, heritage, and creative industries organisations. We work to protect and develop the culture sector for the common good.

Contents

• About


  • Get involved

  • Networks

  • Subscribe

  • Contact

• Resources

  • Useful Facts

  • Open consultations

  • Policy positions

• Blog

• Cross-party groups

• Events

Useful Facts

• Jobs in the creative industries are growing at four times the rate of the UK average.

• Median weekly earnings in Scotland’s creative industries is £625.60, against a Scottish average of £592.70.

• Participating in the arts can improve mental health by reducing stress and isolation, & improving self-esteem.

• A third of gallery visitors are visiting the local area solely to visit the gallery.

• 4000 people were employed by the heritage sector (libraries and archives) in Scotland in 2019.

• UK made films took 44.8% of the box office share in 2018.

• Music & arts activities can aid children with ASD in developing socialisation & communication skills.

• 9,400 people were employed by the writing and publishing industries in Scotland in 2019.

Culture Counts Journal brings you up-to-date with policy-making in the arts, heritage, and creative industries.