Responding to the Independent Review of Creative Scotland

A major theme in the review is the need for a stronger and more visible regional presence. The suggestion that Creative Scotland should reintroduce relationship based roles is particularly significant. For organisations based in places like Shetland, consistent place aware communication is essential. Remote meetings and occasional visits cannot replace regular contact with people who understand the challenges and opportunities of island life. If these roles are reintroduced they must represent the full geography of Scotland, including the Northern Isles, and access from remote locations must be built into the structure from the beginning.

The review also raises concerns about equal access to funding and programmes. Organisations in island and rural areas deal with higher travel costs, recruitment barriers, limited access to training and sometimes uneven digital connectivity. These factors shape what is possible and they must be recognised when funding systems are redesigned. If not, the new system will again favour areas that already have more resources rather than creating genuine fairness across the country.

Shetland Arts is already a partner in local and regional development through our involvement in the Islands Growth Deal. Projects such as Even Here Even Now show the strength and ambition of island based creativity. Our work demonstrates how culture supports community wellbeing, economic activity and the identity of Shetland. To achieve the full potential of this work, national systems must be designed to support the specific conditions of island life. This includes building regional knowledge into decision making, shaping criteria that reflect real island costs and supporting organisations to meet expectations in areas such as digital practice, data and new technologies.

One of the notable features of the public response so far is the lack of commentary that focuses on regional or island issues. Much of the media discussion has concentrated on governance, bureaucracy and funding cycles. These topics matter, but the absence of regional analysis reflects a wider problem, cultures inability to see or think beyond the central belt. If island perspectives are not included in the national conversation about reform, the new system will risk repeating familiar imbalances.

The publication of this review provides a rare chance to reshape how Scotland supports its cultural sector. To make the most of this opportunity, the sector must stay involved in the redesign process. Shetland Arts is ready to contribute and to help ensure the new system reflects the creativity and diversity of the whole country. We believe that with the right approach Scotland can build a cultural landscape that recognises the value of every place, including those furthest from the centre.'

- Graeme Howell, Chief Executive at Shetland Arts