Theatre Peckham have been shortlisted for the Board Equity, Diversity and Inclusion category at the Charity Governance Awards 2025

Theatre Peckham is a multi-award-winning theatre and performing arts academy located in South-East London. For nearly 40 years, we have been a cornerstone of creativity and community engagement, providing access to the arts for young people from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds. Our mission is to cultivate an inclusive and representative society where everyone has the opportunity to participate in, lead, work in, and enjoy arts and culture.

We offer an exceptional performing arts programme that not only nurtures young talent but also helps participants build confidence, develop essential life skills, and access future career opportunities. We aim to ensure that young people from the local community see themselves represented in leadership roles, allowing them to envision their own potential in the creative industries. We are committed to removing barriers to participation and providing an inclusive environment where young people can thrive both artistically and personally.

What the Board Achieved

Theatre Peckham’s board has undergone significant transformation to reflect the diversity and values of the community it serves. Since 2018, we have been intentional about diversifying its governance structure to better align with its mission of inclusion and representation. Today, 69% of board members identify as Black, Asian, or ethnically diverse, and 62% are women. Additionally, 15% of trustees identify as neurodiverse, and the board includes individuals with lived experience of the local community.

The board’s commitment to diversity goes beyond representation. Trustees bring expertise in various fields, such as legal, business, marketing, fundraising, and the arts. Importantly, many trustees are serving in their first governance role, bringing fresh perspectives to the organisation. The board also places a strong emphasis on mentorship and professional development, providing opportunities for young people to step into leadership roles through initiatives like the Young Ambassadors Programme.

One of the young ambassadors has already transitioned into a trustee role, highlighting the clear pathway for emerging talent into governance. By ensuring the board reflects the community’s diversity, we have created a governance structure that is not only representative but also highly effective in driving the charity’s mission forward. Trustees work closely with the staff, sharing their expertise and providing support both in and outside of board meetings, ensuring we operate with efficiency and purpose.

WINNERS REVEALED