They tell our stories, reflect who we are, and bring us together, providing a shared sense of belonging.

That is why I am delighted by the Labour Government’s transformative Arts Everywhere funding announcement for east London and beyond.

With over £127 million of investment across the country, part of a broader £1.5 billion spending plan, Labour is ensuring culture is at the heart of our communities. 

 Here in Bethnal Green and Stepney, we have secured nearly three million pounds of this funding.

Rich Mix London is receiving £2.2 million and St Margaret’s House is receiving £700,000.

MP Rushanara Ali says that the Government is ensuring cultural spaces remain welcoming and affordable (Image: Newsquest)

Rich Mix, on Bethnal Green Road, is an arts and charity hub that brings people together through its independent cinema, live music, and creative enterprise spaces.

Established in Victorian times, St Margaret’s House is a community centre that promotes arts, wellbeing, and social action – providing affordable spaces and opportunities for people to come together. 

Throughout my time in Parliament, I have supported these kinds of organisations locally and in Westminster, so it is great to see their importance and achievements being recognised by this Labour Government.

This major investment will allow these venues to complete crucial building projects and upgrade their technology.

By backing the places people care about most, this Labour Government is opening doors for young people, saving cherished local venues, and ensuring our cultural spaces remain welcoming and affordable.

There is more good news for my constituency, as Labour has also announced the Common Ground Award, with three of our grassroots organisations – the School for Social Entrepreneurs, Micro Rainbow and Stepney City Farm – receiving new funding.

These organisations do incredible work to support individuals and the community. So I am thrilled they’re being backed by Government funding.

Part of a wider initiative supporting over 200 organisations nationwide, this funding will be instrumental in strengthening unity, building trust, and creating genuine opportunities within our local neighbourhoods.

For too long, local facilities have been forced to do more with less or to make cuts to services because of cuts under the previous Conservative government.

Today, we are building a stronger future. These funding announcements highlight what we can achieve with a Labour Government that truly values the importance of arts, culture and the voluntary sector and invests directly in people, places, and communities.

  • Rushanara Ali is Labour MP for Bethnal Green and Stepney.