Arts programmes hailed for improving lives of residents

INNOVATIVE arts projects are playing a major role in tackling anti-social behaviour and in regenerating communities in Edinburgh, a new report has revealed.

The report, Arts for Social Inclusion in Edinburgh, highlights how the increasing use of the arts in various forms is dramatically improving the lives of people in the capital.

The report was commissioned by the Edinburgh Arts and Social Inclusion Project, which now believes more needs to be done to obtain the benefits that the arts can bring.

The project co-ordinator, Kate Wimpress, said too often the arts are mistakenly classed as elitist and their potential value for regenerating communities and enhancing quality of life is overlooked.

She said: "There is real evidence of the value of the arts in making Edinburgh a healthier, wealthier and better city. What is needed now are ways to sustain these projects and to promote this work even further."

The report highlights five projects that have helped in improving health, job creation, improving education, engaging young people and creating safer communities.

The Altern8 project, an initiative to tackle youth crime developed by the Wester Hailes-based WHALE arts agency, was heralded a major success by Lothian and Borders Police. In an assessment of the scheme, the chief constable, Paddy Tomkins, noted "a significant reduction has been achieved in youth crime and anti-social behaviour" in the trial area. The project is to be rolled out across the city and nationally if funds are forthcoming.

Councillor Ian Perry, chair of Capital City Partnership, the agency that manages the Edinburgh Arts and Social Inclusion Project, said the report has provoked an important citywide debate around the role of the arts within community and urban regeneration.