Govanhill Baths Community Trust

Through CultureXcelerator, Govanhill Baths Community Trust received tailored, practical guidance in marketing and operations resulting in a strengthened marketing strategy, increased efficiency, and a more secure future. The partnership highlights the programme's effectiveness in empowering cultural organisations to address their unique challenges and make a lasting positive impact on their communities.

In 2023, despite its positive community impact, GBCT faced challenges that hindered its ability to function efficiently. The organisation's rapid growth exacerbated the fact that the GBCT’s operations were too heavily reliant on the CEO, Fatima Uygun. This in turn hampered strategic planning and the development of effective marketing and human resources operations.

Fatima had previous mixed experiences with general consultants, so she was not actively seeking a business support programme when she received the CultureXcelerator email. She was drawn to the programme's tailored approach and the assurance that consultants would be experienced in the cultural sector and more hands-on in their support.

GBCT’s application was successful and through the programme, the organisation received tailored support from two dedicated SIS Associates with expertise in marketing and operations.

The CultureXcelerator partnership had a significant impact on GBCT. After an initial consultation, the support focused on preparing the organisation to be fit for purpose for its expanding operations. The programme highlighted the need for specific middle management roles to improve efficiency and sustainability. However, the most valuable aspect was the personalised marketing strategy developed by SIS Associate Jane Wilson.

Jane understood what Fatima needed as a CEO and how to create a practical marketing strategy in a short space of time. This strategy provided a clear roadmap for promoting the organisation's services and the upcoming capital project. The strategy has already been partly implemented despite the outstanding requirement for a dedicated marketing manager. While the full impact of the strategy may not yet be realised due to resource constraints, it continues to serve as a valuable foundation for future marketing efforts and helped to raise awareness of the organisation's work within the community.

As a result of these interventions, GBCT is now better positioned for the future albeit continues to need support for its ambitious projects.

The partnership between GBCT and CultureXcelerator was a success. By providing tailored, expert support from high-calibre associates, the programme helped GBCT overcome significant challenges and position itself for long-term growth and sustainability. The GBCT is now better equipped to serve the needs of the Govanhill community and make a positive impact on the lives of its residents.

GBCT's experience demonstrates the value of the CultureXcelerator programme in addressing the unique challenges faced by cultural organisations empowering them to make a lasting difference in their communities.