Official Statistics

This means that the Arts Council produces, manages and disseminates official statistics in line with the Code of Practice for Official Statistics published by the UK Statistics. 

The Code of Practice for Statistics sets the standards that producers of official statistics should commit to. The Code benefits all of us, as users and citizens. Compliance with the Code gives users confidence that published government statistics have public value, are high quality, and are produced by people and organisations that are trustworthy.

The Code is based on three core principles, Trustworthiness, Quality and Value (TQV), with ten underpinning principles:

Trustworthiness is when users can have confidence in the people and organisations that produce statistics and data

• Principle 1: Show integrity
• Principle 2: Lead responsibly
• Principle 3: Be transparent
• Principle 4: Manage data responsibly

Quality is when users can have confidence that the data and methods produce assured statistics

• Principle 5: Prioritise quality
• Principle 6: Be rigorous
• Principle 7: Be open about quality

Value is when users can have confidence that published statistics support society’s needs for information

• Principle 8: Be relevant
• Principle 9: Be clear
• Principle 10: Be accessible

Arts Council of Northern Ireland official statistics 2025/26

Annual Investment Survey Results

The Annual Investment Survey collects financial, workforce, activity and audience data from organisations in receipt of funding from two programmes: Annual Funding Programme (AFP) and National Lottery Funding Programme (NLFP). It provides a consistent evidence base for monitoring the reach and impact of public investment in the arts, demonstrating the sector’s contribution to communities and the economy.