What is the creative economy?

Before 1997 the creative sector was considered to be of only marginal importance to the UK’s economic well-being. Creativity was not seen as a driver for job creation or economic growth. Ten years later all this has changed.

The first Creative Industries Mapping Document was published in 1998 and the second in 2001. The need then was to raise awareness of the industries, the contribution they made to the economy and the issues they faced. Now the impact of creativity in regeneration and social inclusion is widely acknowledged.  Every region of the UK has identified the creative economy as a priority area for economic growth. And the special needs of these industries are reflected in policy development at national, regional and sub-regional level. They are a real success story.

The Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) helps the creative industries thrive by raising their profile and supporting their development. It believes that the most successful economies and societies in the twenty first century will be creative ones. The British Council works with the DCMS to promote the vision of the UK as the world’s creative hub; and to share expertise and experience with other countries worldwide.

Definition of the creative industries that make up the creative economy

‘The creative industries are those industries that are based on individual creativity, skill and talent. They are also those that have the potential to create wealth and jobs through developing intellectual property,’ www.culture.gov.uk/creative/mapping.html

They include: advertising, architecture, arts, antiques markets, computer and video games, crafts, design, designer fashion, film and video, music, performing arts, publishing, software, television and radio.

See the DCMS website for links to export, education and skills, regional support, business support and funding; and related statistical information.

See our new Creative Economy site for more information about what we do and check our Contact Us page to find out who is working in our Creative Economy Unit.