Letters / Why not give arts and amenity more funding?
Why do Shetland amenity and Shetland arts trusts not get the same level of funding as Shetland Recreational Trust?
Heritage and arts in remote rural areas is as worthy and necessary for leisure, if not tourism development purposes as sport.
Shetland is sports mad, especially football. Swimming, athletics – especially running, rugby and other sport have high participation rates, because sports and recreation facilities are well spread across the islands and supported through schools.
Enhanced funding for heritage and arts would increase participation in these leisure activities, equally as beneficial to combat mental health issues as physical activity.
Related cultural and creative businesses could also develop to enhance the local cultural circular economy for locals and visitors alike.
Yes, Shetland amenity and arts trusts need to significantly improve its organisational, people and staff management skills as well as just better financial management, which have historically been much poorer than Shetland Recreational Trust, which has always been well managed.
James J Paton
Lerwick
SRT to receive £3.8m as over £10m in grants announced by charitable trust
