Overview

• The region-wide review addresses declining working-class representation in creative industries that Afzal says is at a decades-low under a growing 'class ceiling'.
• Avis Gilmore serves as co-chair, with social research consultancy RISE conducting engagement to inform the blueprint for change.
• The initiative is backed by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and the Co-op, signaling institutional support for proposed interventions.
• Public input will be gathered through an online survey and focus groups to capture local experiences and barriers to entry.
• Context from coverage highlights Manchester’s working-class cultural legacy and warnings from figures like Christopher Eccleston and Julie Hesmondhalgh about shrinking opportunities.