£500,000 Government Funding Boost for Cornish Language and Culture

In a move to promote the Cornish language and culture, the government has announced a £500,000 investment as part of the Devolution Deal for Cornwall. This funding aims to enhance Cornish language education in schools, support the screen industry, and empower community groups dedicated to preserving Cornwall’s rich heritage.

The allocation of funds is set to benefit 40 primary schools across Cornwall that participate in the GoCornish project, incorporating the Cornish language into their curriculum. Additionally, the initiative will extend to young families, with activities planned for nursery-aged children in local libraries, aiming to embed the language from an early age.

A key component of this funding is the development of new films and digital content in Kernewek (Cornish), building on the success of Cornish language short films previously showcased on BBC I-Player. These films have not only gained international recognition at film festivals but have also played a crucial role in promoting Cornwall’s burgeoning film and digital media sector.

Community groups focused on the Cornish language will receive support to host more activities that encourage the use of Kernewek, from public speaking to creating digital learning resources. Moreover, a major event featuring Cornish language music and performances is in the pipeline, aimed at celebrating and revitalising Cornwall’s linguistic heritage.

The funding will also assist community groups engaged in traditional Cornish cultural practices, such as Cornish wrestling and dance, and organise educational events for young people. These efforts underscore the government’s commitment to preserving Cornwall’s unique traditions and language.

Councillor Carol Mould, portfolio holder for neighbourhoods, expressed enthusiasm over the funding, highlighting its potential to elevate the profile of Cornwall’s distinctive language, culture, and heritage. She emphasised the investment’s role in supporting the creative sector and fostering opportunities for young people to learn and perpetuate Cornish traditions.

Laura Giles, managing director of Screen Cornwall, also welcomed the investment, noting its importance in achieving a more authentic media representation of Cornwall. Giles anticipates the funding will stimulate a vibrant ecosystem for companies and creatives in the region, further enriching Cornwall’s cultural landscape.

This government investment forms part of a broader Devolution Deal for Cornwall, which includes new funding for adult education, housing, and the preservation of historic buildings, marking a comprehensive effort to support and develop the region’s unique identity and economy.