Crafting positive outcomes for allAt Making Space, we change lives through craft. From our purpose-built studios in Leigh Park, Hampshire — one of the most deprived communities in England — we make space for people and organisations to create, connect and lead.
Our charitable aims are to make positive differences through creativity, in small ways and large, supporting people from all walks of life to build confidence, skills and a sense of belonging through craft. Leigh Park is a community with strong creativity but limited cultural infrastructure and investment. Many residents face barriers to accessing arts and culture, both physically and financially. Making Space exists to change this — supporting people to develop their creativity, connect with others, and play an active role in shaping the cultural life of their community. We are a craft organisation and registered charity rooted in Leigh Park, with learning and partnerships that reach beyond our local area. Our programme of workshops and experiences are co-created with community partners and through consultation with local people. Local people play an active role in shaping our work, with many progressing from participants into volunteers, makers and leaders within our creative community. |
Registered Charity Number
1108387. |
Our specially tailored projects inspire, challenge, skill-up, engage and build new audiences for the sector. They have lasting local impact, and are often transformational for participants. Working in collaboration with local charities, essential need services and community groups, we are inclusive, reducing barriers to participation and making space for a thriving, creative community in a place with limited access to cultural opportunities.
We offer both first-time experiences of craft and work with those who want to take their skills to the next level. We enable people to develop new ways of thinking about craft and experience first-hand the important presence of craft in everyday life.
Raising the profile of craft in all its forms, we work with local and national arts organisations, contributing to debate, supporting makers and providing opportunities. We also work to increase the visibility of creativity emerging from Leigh Park, ensuring it is recognised within the wider cultural landscape. Through our outreach projects, we work with partners including schools, children’s centres, family learning environments and retirement homes.
We offer both first-time experiences of craft and work with those who want to take their skills to the next level. We enable people to develop new ways of thinking about craft and experience first-hand the important presence of craft in everyday life.
Raising the profile of craft in all its forms, we work with local and national arts organisations, contributing to debate, supporting makers and providing opportunities. We also work to increase the visibility of creativity emerging from Leigh Park, ensuring it is recognised within the wider cultural landscape. Through our outreach projects, we work with partners including schools, children’s centres, family learning environments and retirement homes.
in the spotlight
Upcoming events, news and highlights we want to put in the spotlight.
2026 RESIDENT MAKER VACANCIESWe're excited to share we will have a variety of studio vacancies this year at our Leigh Park site and also a new site in Rowlands Castle this year. Head to this page of our website to find out more and fill in an expression of interest form.
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Creative Futures - Craft PathwaysThe next phase of our multi-year craft programme for young people aged 16-25 will be launching very soon. If you're a local young person with ambitions of a creative career please email us using the button below to register your interest. Check back soon for more information.
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POTS OF POTENTIALIn the summer of 2025, we launched a fundraising campaign to help maintain and eventually replace our community kilns – an essential part of life at Making Space. Find out about the workshops & silent auction that kickstarted the campaign making over £1000.
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free bursaries
We are looking to establish a creative community of care experienced people who will join us for group sessions at Making Space and enjoy free bursary placements on our creative programme.
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Location & HoursMaking Space
2 Bishopstoke Road, Leigh Park, Havant, Hampshire, PO9 5BN Phone: 023 9247 2491 Email: [email protected] MONDAY - THURSDAY | 9.30-3.30PM what3words address: ///shop.melon.rail |
making space for crafts ltd.
Making Space is a company limited by guarantee no 04482576 and a registered charity no 1108387
Copyright © 2024
Copyright © 2024