At the National Campaign for the Arts, we believe in public investment in the arts. But over the past decade, arts funding has been severely reduced; our Arts Index shows the extremity of that decline. Our Hearts for the Arts Awards recognise Local Authorities making provisions for arts and creativity in their communities - against the financial odds. But here, the National Arts Fundraising School offers a solution.

Today we announced the shortlist for the National Campaign for the Arts' Hearts for the Arts Awards 2021. The awards celebrate the unsung heroes of Local Authorities who are championing the arts against all odds.

Mole Valley District Council's Claudia Cartwright has been shortlisted for Best Arts Champion - Local Authority or Cultural Trust Worker in the 2021 Hearts for the Arts Awards.

Wandsworth Council's Create & Learn PlayKits have been shortlisted for Best Arts Project in the 2021 Hearts for the Arts Awards.

Mole Valley District Council's Arts E-Live has been shortlisted for Best Arts Project in the 2021 Hearts for the Arts Awards.

Derbyshire County Council and Arts Derbyshire's Necklace of Stars has been shortlisted for Best Arts Project in the 2021 Hearts for the Arts Awards.