A New Direction · 2014
A New Direction surveyed 1,689 young Londoners aged 13–19 to explore differences in arts and cultural engagement between young people from lower-income families and their peers. The research found consistent gaps in engagement, cultural vocabulary and awareness of opportunities between those receiving free school meals and better-off young people. Key barriers included social, economic, physical and psychological factors — particularly a sense of identity as a 'non-attendee' among poorer young people. The report argues that arts and cultural engagement could play a meaningful role in supporting social mobility and closing the attainment gap.