Cultural Compact

What is Rochdale's Cultural Compact?

Rochdale's Cultural Compact is an innovative initiative designed to strengthen and elevate the cultural sector across the borough. The Compat, which is currently administered by the RDA Culture & Placemaking team, brings together diverse stakeholders to harness the power of culture in driving local development. 

Initially formed as part of the CDF2 programme, our Compact is a key force in transforming Rochdale into a centre of cultural activity and creativity.

Background to Cultural Compacts

Cultural Compacts were launched in 2019 by the Arts Council and DCMS as a means to enhance the cultural assets of cities and towns across the UK. 

These partnerships aim to bridge the cultural sector with local authorities and other industries, encouraging cross-sector collaboration and fostering cultural and economic growth.

Rochdale's Cultural Compact is one of these vital partnerships, continually evolving to meet the dynamic needs of its community.

Key Principles

The Compact is rooted in inclusivity and sociocracy, ensuring that all voices are heard and that decision-making is collaborative. This structure allows the Compact to remain agile and responsive, adapting to the changing cultural landscape in Rochdale while keeping the community at its heart.

Working Circles

The Compact is organised into several working circles, each with a distinct focus on advancing cultural development in Rochdale:

• Community Circle: Engages with residents to ensure cultural activities are accessible, meaningful, and inclusive. The Culture Coop leads on this activity.
• Activate Circle: Focuses on energising public spaces through cutting-edge cultural programming and events.
• Connect Circle: Builds essential infrastructure to link the cultural sector with broader opportunities, fostering collaboration and growth. 
• Pioneer Circle: Dedicated to cultivating skills and nurturing talent within Rochdale's creative and cultural sectors.
• Inspire Circle: Champions engagement with children and young people, sparking early interest in culture and creativity. Create Rochdale leads on this activity.
• Mission Circle: Guides the strategic direction of the Compact, drawing insights from the work of the other circles.

Get Involved

Whether you're an artist, a local business, or someone passionate about culture, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. To learn more or join a working circle, reach out to us via our website. Together, we can drive forward a creative and culturally rich future for Rochdale!