Defining the value of the cultural sector in York and North Yorkshire

XR Stories has launched a York and North Yorkshire Cultural Impact survey to gather data on the scale and value of arts and cultural organisations across the region.

Undertaken in partnership with the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, the survey aims to build a clearer picture of the true value of the arts and cultural sector in North Yorkshire, including both economic value and social contribution.

There is significant overlap between the cultural and creative sectors and this latest research project aims to present new data and insights to further boost advocacy, investment and opportunities in the York and North Yorkshire region.

The work builds on XR Stories’ York and North Yorkshire Creative Industries Evidence Report which presents data analysis, policy review and findings from the first York and North Yorkshire Creative Economy Census. Recommendations from the report (published in April 2026) regarding investment, innovation and growth are being progressed as part of the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority’s delivery plan for the region. 

The new cultural survey also sits alongside XR Stories’ creative wellbeing research which presents findings from a study into creative wellbeing provision across North Yorkshire (activities run by organisations or groups where people make or perform something such as art, craft, music, singing or writing and that contribute to people’s wellbeing).  

The cultural survey is undertaken as part of The York Policy Engine Creative Industries Research Group, led by XR Stories. It builds on the strong partnership between XR Stories/the University of York with the York and North Yorkshire combined Authority.

The cultural impact survey is conducted by BOP Consulting on behalf of XR Stories. 

Published on 4 November 2026