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Model, designer and broadcaster Eunice Olumide on the transformative power of the arts

I feel passionately about the arts because it has the power to transform lives. Particularly working class lives, like mine. I grew up in an area of severe social and economic deprivation and arts institutions were the only safe space available. They inspired me to truly imagine a life that was different.

The arts are also a powerful tool for supporting children who are experiencing severe challenges in the education system. They have a unique ability to help young people focus or concentrate; to feel like they can truly participate. This, in turn, helps to enhance their overall skills and improve academic achievement.

I’ve visited and worked in schools across the UK, from the Highlands and Perthshire all the way down to Birmingham and London. What I’ve learnt is that we learn in different ways: some of us learn better through vocational activities, some of us through academic study, and some of us are kinetic learners.

I’ve seen first hand how the arts have helped a variety of young people. An inspiring arts subject can give a child a reason to turn up at school – they’re excited! This then impacts positively on other lessons. I believe in a universal education, so I’m deeply concerned about the current lack of access to creative subjects.

What’s more, the arts are increasingly essential now that computers are taking over much of the work force. Our very human ability to think outside the box correlates with variety of experience. Different backgrounds bring different perspectives, and diversity of thought will give us a greater chance of solving serious environmental and social issues.

Whether it’s drama, dance, music, painting or design, even learning how to cook or use a sewing machine, I would like to see the whole range of creative subjects valued as much as academic studies are. These are the skills that we need to survive… and to thrive.

Without strong specific policy commitments, I’m sceptical of government promises. Words are not enough. Action is needed. Despite huge tax rises in recent years, people aren’t able to access what they need to excel. Arts education has got to be a priority, or the country will lose something that’s impossible to get back.

So what I want to say to the Labour government is this:

If you are committed, and if you truly care about humanity, investing in arts education is a no-brainer. There is no excuse not to. Especially when there are so many areas where you can save money – even if that means MPs taking a pay cut. You need to be putting in 110%!