We align with Arts Council England’s Investment Principle of Inclusivity & Relevance and the ambitions of the Let’s Create strategy, which state that England’s cultural sector must reflect the full breadth of the communities it serves. 

We recognise that creativity flourishes when everyone feels seen, valued and able to participate. Our commitment to equality and diversity is not peripheral to our mission, it is fundamental to it. 

We actively champion the presence, participation and leadership of people from communities who have historically been underrepresented in the arts. This includes, but is not limited to, people of diverse ethnic backgrounds, disabled people and those with access needs, working-class communities, people of different faiths, LGBTQ+ communities, and people across generations. 

We understand that identity is intersectional and evolving. Individuals may experience multiple and overlapping forms of marginalisation or privilege. Our approach therefore avoids simplistic or single-category thinking. We aim to respond with nuance, care and openness, ensuring that our programming, artist development and audience engagement reflect the lived realities of Oldham’s communities. 

We are committed to identifying and dismantling barriers, whether financial, physical, cultural or attitudinal, that prevent people from accessing the arts. This includes fair pricing structures, accessible facilities and performances, inclusive language in marketing, proactive outreach, and partnerships with community organisations. 

We do not believe in a “one-size-fits-all” cultural offer. We programme and engage in ways that are responsive, informed by consultation and grounded in dialogue. Audience development is not about expanding numbers alone; it is about deepening relationships, building trust, and sustaining long-term cultural participation across diverse communities. 

The Coliseum is a welcoming and respectful environment for all. We do not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or hate speech in our venue, online platforms, or Communications. We are clear in our responsibility to protect communities and to ensure that our spaces are safe for expression, creativity, and gathering. 

Freedom of artistic expression remains central to our practice, but it will always be balanced with our duty of care to the communities we serve. 

We welcome feedback and recognise that inclusion is an ongoing process of learning and improvement. We seek to work in partnership with communities, artists and audiences to ensure our practice remains relevant, representative and equitable. 

Oldham Coliseum Theatre is committed to building and maintaining diverse audiences, not as a target, but as a reflection of our belief that culture belongs to everyone.