Here’s some of the most common questions we get asked.
About the panels
Who’s on the core panel and how are they selected?
The panel is made up of residents across 12 towns and villages in Thurrock who’ve put themselves forward to be part of the decision-making process. There’s a broad range of people who are representative of Thurrock communities. This makes sure we have a range of diverse perspectives.
Can I put myself forward for the core panel?
Of course. We’re always looking for volunteers to join our core panel. We believe lots of different opinions and perspectives will ensure the events we hold are inclusive and reflect the various tastes and interests of the people in our communities. Interested? Simply email us at: Info@StartThurrock.org
What’s the Kick-Starter panel?
We have Kick-Starter panels across Thurrock. As the name suggests, their aim is to kickstart creative activities in their area, from sharing experience, knowledge and memories about the place to helping make an event happen. If there’s not a kickstarter panel in your area, chat to us about setting one up.
About our decision-making process
How do you make sure decisions are fair?
Making sure decisions are led by the people of Thurrock is at the heart of the Creative People and Places programme. To make sure decisions are effective, fair and impartial, we have an established process to avoid conflicts of interest and help the panel members reach a united consensus.
How do you decide which ideas go forward?
All ideas and activities need to be linked to the arts or culture in some way. The best bit is that the people of Thurrock are in control. Our core panel measures suggestions against an agreed set of criteria and quality principles (you can read more about them in our guidance form) in order to decide which ideas they feel are best suited to the spirit of Start Thurrock and reflect our communities so they feel seen and heard.
About Creative Community Support
I’m not part of an organisation or group? Can I still apply for support?
We’ll consider everyone and every idea, so let’s chat. Remember, this support is for you, to help your community be more creative or try something new.
Can local artists and cultural organisations apply for Creative Community Support?
You’re more than welcome to apply for Creative Community Support if you meet the criteria and your work focuses on engaging communities. If you’re looking to develop a larger creative project for residents, please get in touch to see if there are other ways we can support. You can also get involved with Start Thurrock by joining our mailing list – you’ll be the first to learn about the types of creative projects communities are interested in, and call outs for commissions.
I’m not an artist. Can I still apply for support?
Absolutely. As long as you can demonstrate how you’ll work with the community in the delivery of your idea, we’ll help you unleash your creativity and deliver your vision.
Does my activity or idea have to target certain people?
We encourage you to specify who your idea is targeted at but it can literally be anyone. Please note that ideas targeting those who are under-represented will be prioritised. Data and research has been used to identify that disabled people, young people (16-25) and people from global majority groups are less engaged in arts and culture in Thurrock. Our guidance (on the application form) gives you more detail, so it’s good to have a read before you apply for funding.
I’m filling in the Creative Community Support form and I’m stuck. Can you help?
If you’re finding some of the questions or parts of the form difficult, you can book a support session and one of the team will be more than happy to help.
Can I have an extension on the deadline to submit my proposal?
Unfortunately, not. There are four deadlines for Creative Community Support per year. Applicants can submit at any time, but should consider timelines for decision-making before submitting. Please note, your activity shouldn’t start until two months after the application deadline.
What opportunities will there be for Thurrock based artists and cultural organisations to create or present work?
We welcome submissions from anyone living and working in our region. You don’t need to apply for Creative Community Support to be part of our programme. If you’re holding an upcoming event, we can also help you promote it. See our ‘Get involved’ page on how to get your creative event uploaded to this site.
General questions
What does co-creation mean?
Your idea will be developed in collaboration with the people who’ll experience it, in order to shape it and bring it to fruition.
For example, a theatre company might want to deliver workshops within the community that would then lead to a short performance. The theatre company would identify a group in the community to listen to their ideas and together, they’d work out if people would be interested and who could be involved. The community would also have input into the content of the performance, helping to decide what story could be told that would be meaningful to local audiences.
How can I find out what’s on near me?
Whether you’re looking for what’s on today or this weekend, or upcoming events, you’ll find a list of events near you on our ‘What’s on’ page.
What’s a cultural event?
A cultural event celebrates or showcases aspects of a particular culture or heritage. It can be anything from an adult arts workshop, a festival, exhibition or performance, and can feature things like music, art, dance and literature. Usually it promotes cultural diversity and traditions, and offers an opportunity for communities to come together and share in the richness of their heritage.
