Caroline Norbury: Creative UK’s response to the Creative Industries Sector Plan

The UK Government has today, 23 June 2025, launched the Creative Industries Sector Plan. Caroline Norbury OBE, Chief Executive of Creative UK, said:

“We warmly welcome the UK Government’s Creative Industries Sector Plan: a clear signal that creativity is central to the UK’s industrial strategy and long-term growth ambitions. 

“The recognition of the creative industries as one of eight high-potential growth sectors is a landmark moment. This plan reflects the economic and cultural power of the sector – and the vital role we play in driving innovation, exports and opportunity across all regions of the UK. 

“We welcome the plan’s focus on access to finance, R&D and innovation, skills, trade, place and IP, which are all key enablers for scaling creative businesses. The emphasis on leveraging the British Business Bank and extending the reach of expert intermediaries demonstrates a maturing understanding of what the sector needs to thrive. 

“We are also pleased to see the appointment of a Freelance Champion – a significant step forward for a workforce that is dynamic but too often precarious. Creative UK has consistently called for more tailored support for freelancers, and this commitment has the potential to deliver meaningful change. 

“Delivery will now be key. It will require genuine coordination across departments and agencies, and close partnership with regional and local leaders – such as combined authorities – to ensure that support reaches the full breadth of the sector.

“We stand ready to play our part in turning this shared vision into reality, ensuring tangible benefits reach the freelancers, microbusinesses, and cultural institutions who are the bedrock of our success. 

“As the global race to lead in creativity and innovation accelerates, the message from the UK must be clear: we are open for creative business.”