Labour calls for more Cambridge entertainment and events involving minority communities

21 May 2008

Cambridge Labour Councillors want the city council to develop a far wider range of summer entertainment, shows and arts provision in the city, to reflect the needs and character of all sections of the diverse communities in the city.

This follows Labour's analysis of the latest city survey of all residents which showed that Black, Minority and Ethnic residents participate in or go to see far fewer shows than the average (MRUK, December 2007). The survey also showed that minority communities also suffer because of poor awareness of wider City services available, and have greater problems like noise pollution.

Cllr Miriam Lynn, Labour's spokesperson for Arts and Recreation, said "The Council's survey shows that there are several inequalities in the way residents are using the City's services. We see this as being both unfair and a major missed opportunity. We want the Council to make sure that it provides arts and leisure facilities which meet the needs of the whole diverse City. Extra summer events involving the talents and cultures of our diverse communities would also add more fun for all Cambridge residents."

Miriam also wants the City Council to regularly publish survey results on how residents feel about the services it provides, particularly as the Council regularly pays money out to external researchers to find out this information. Labour Councillors want to see the surveys also used more to improve the way the City Council deliver services for all citizens.