Access support for arts COUNCIL funding
I regularly support artists and arts organisations as an access support worker. I mainly work with people who qualify for access support through the Arts Council England (ACE) system. I have worked with people across the art-forms and at various career stages.
Many people find ACE’s online system, Grantium, challenging to navigate. There are resources available through ACE’s website which can help, as well as simplified templates put together by THE UNCULTURED.
If you experience barriers to accessing ACE funding, or anticipate barriers to access, you might qualify for access support. This means a support worker will help you put together your application and navigate the online system, at no cost to you.
Barriers to access might include neurodivergence, physical barriers, learning disability and differences, involvement in the mental health system. It may also include anxiety and procrastination around form filling and fundraising - you do not need to provide any proof of your need for support. If you cannot use the online system or need support to do so, I can help you to complete your application.
I work with each person to find the best way to support them to put in their application. I have worked with lots of artists over the last years, across two of the funding strands:
how it works
initial 30 mins chat to discuss your needs and your project in a format that suits you; phone call, video call, email chat
if you’re ready to go ahead, I will build an outline plan for how I’ll support you
we fill in the online eligibility form, either together or I can do it on your behalf
once ACE have agreed to access support we begin the work, following the outline plan as a guide, and making adjustments as needed
submit your application!