Today’s event not only aligns with our ongoing advocacy at the Parliamentary Society for Arts, Fashion, and Sports but also serves as a platform to bring recognition to those individuals who have excelled in using their craft to make the world a better place. While we are addressing the urgent issue of violence within the arts industry—particularly its impact on women and girls—we are equally focused on highlighting and celebrating the positive contributions of those who have used their creativity to inspire meaningful change.
Each year, our assemblies and publications take on critical societal issues. In the past, we’ve championed causes such as sustainability, mental health, and modern slavery. This year, we turn our focus to the plight of those affected by violence within the creative industries, where too many endure in silence. Our mission is to raise awareness and drive transformative change, ensuring that the sector not only thrives but also protects and uplifts its people.
The arts and culture sector is a powerful economic force, contributing £10.8 billion annually to the UK economy and generating 363,700 jobs. However, behind these impressive figures lies a troubling reality: many working within the sector face heightened levels of violence, with domestic abuse and substance use disorders (SUDs) compounding the issue. Research reveals that between 25% and 50% of men who commit acts of domestic violence also suffer from SUDs, while 80% of child abuse cases involve drugs or alcohol. Women struggling with substance abuse are more likely to become victims of violence.
This issue is particularly pertinent within the creative sector, where traits such as novelty-seeking and a craving for dopamine—integral to the creative process—can lead some individuals down a path of substance misuse. While not every creative individual succumbs to it, many are at a higher risk. Rising arousal needs, lower cognitive control, and the search for external stimulation can sometimes result in dangerous behaviour. This intensity, which drives artistic brilliance, can also fuel destructive patterns without the right support.
As we continue to advocate for those affected by violence, we are also committed to fostering an environment where individuals are not judged but supported. It is crucial to create a space where people can speak out rather than suffer in silence. Our role as a society, and as members of the creative community, is to ensure that the brilliance of our industry does not come at the cost of the safety and wellbeing of its people.
Moreover, we are not only talking about these pressing issues but also recognising and celebrating those whose efforts have made the world a better place through their crafts. These remarkable individuals demonstrate the power of creativity to uplift and transform society. Their dedication and resilience are a reminder that art, music, fashion, and other creative expressions are not just forms of entertainment—they are vehicles for positive social change.
Through today’s event, we honour those who have used their talents to make a lasting impact and call upon our industry to ensure that it becomes a safer, more supportive space for all. Creativity, after all, is a force for good, and together, we can harness that force to build a brighter, and a more secure future for all.
By: Rebeca Riofrio
Photos by Cem Kaplan