Assessment Criteria
All eligible applications are assessed in the context of:
- Specific purpose and priorities of the award;
- Specific artform / arts practice guidelines and priorities within that award;
- Quality of the idea presented;
- Track record of the applicant;
- Potential demonstrated by applicants without an established track record;
- Provision of equitable conditions and remuneration for artists;
- Feasibility of the entire proposal, including financial feasibility;
- Competitive context and available resources.
Assessment Process
The Arts Council considers all applications, makes decisions and communicates these to applicants in accordance with set procedures. The aim is to ensure that the system for making awards is fair and transparent.
Peer panels
Some awards are assessed by peer panels.The purpose of peer panel meetings is to allow for a diversity of expert views to inform the decision-making process. Peer panels normally comprise at least three external adjudicators with relevant artform and/or arts practice expertise. Each meeting is led by an Arts Council member acting as non-voting chair. Arts Council advisers and staff attend as required, and those involved in the initial assessment of applications are on hand to provide information.
All those attending receive information in advance of the meeting about all applications. Panel members have full access to application forms and supporting material on the day of the assessment. Where shortlisting has occurred, the panel also has access to applications that were not shortlisted.
For some awards where shortlisting does not occur (notably Commissions), the relevant advisers and staff undertake a voting role in the panel assessment
Timeframes
The Arts Council endeavours to assess applications as quickly as possible, but the volume of applications and the rigorous assessment process mean that in some cases it can take approximately 14 weeks from closing date to decision. The assessment process for the Travel and Training Award takes less time, and we aim to post decision letters within four to six weeks of receipt of applications.
What happens if I receive an award?
A letter of offer will be sent to you detailing the amount of funding, and the terms and conditions of the award. You will also be informed of the process by which your award should be drawn down. You will be asked to write formally to the Arts Council to accept the award.
What happens if I do not receive an award?
You will be informed in writing if your application is not successful. Unfortunately, eligibility and compliance with application procedures alone do not guarantee receipt of an award. Because of the large volume of applications, demand for funding always exceeds the available resources. All awards are therefore made in a competitive environment focusing on the criteria outlined in the general guidance notes on Assessment Criteria. If your application is not successful you can seek feedback from Arts Council staff.
Appeals and complaints
If you feel that the Arts Council's published procedures have not been followed, check the Appeals and Complaints Procedure, or contact the Arts Council for a copy of the Appeals and Complaints information sheet.