Creative Communities Podcast

About Creative Communities Podcast

Discover how devolution, co-creation and culture can drive growth, unlock innovation and create new opportunities for people and places across the UK. Meet Community Innovation Practitioners working with local communities and partners on the challenges and opportunities that matter to their places. From heritage and belonging to regeneration and cultural participation, hear stories of collaboration and practical ideas for your own work, research, organisation or community. Creative Communities is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council and hosted by Northumbria University.

Publisher

Creative Communities

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

5 Sept 2024

Latest episode

13 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   13 Oct 2026

   Newyddion i Bawb (News for All)

   What if the future of journalism started by asking communities what they actually want and need? Join Community Innovation Practitioner Shirish Kulkarni from Cardiff University in Blaenau Ffestiniog, a post-industrial town in North Wales shaped by its slate-mining heritage, Welsh language and strong sense of community. His research looks at how communities can have more control over the stories, information and conversations that shape their lives. Shirish works with local people, community organisations, creatives, designers and Welsh-language broadcaster S4C to rethink how journalism could become more relevant and rooted in the places it serves. Hear how Blaenau’s history and tradition of community organising inspires creative ways to build trust and talk honestly about how the town is represented. Along the way, the research challenges familiar assumptions about the relationship between journalism and the people it serves. What can journalism learn from approaches built on care, collaboration and local knowledge? And with Wales able to shape its own response through devolution, could these ideas help strengthen journalism, social cohesion and democracy? Chapters [00:00] – Welcome to Creative Communities [02:51] – Newyddion i Bawb: rethinking journalism with communities [05:02] – Blaenau Ffestiniog: a place that tells its own story [08:50] – Who gets to represent communities and how? [14:00] – Trust, journalism and seeing your life reflected [20:00] – What happens when communities stop waiting for solutions? [25:00] – Co-creating new ways to tell stories and share information [30:00] – Creativity, play and doing research differently [34:53] – From consuming news to making sense of the world together [40:00] – What journalism can learn from communities Useful links & further reading About Shirish Kulkarni’s Creative Communities research, including case study and policy paper – here (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/shirish-kulkarni/) Explore the AHRC Creative Communities Programme – here (https://creativecommunities.uk/) Special thanks & credits ‘Newyddion S4C’ title music courtesy of the BBC. Thanks to our community partners CellB and Y Dref Werdd - particularly Rhys Roberts and Wil Gritten - for their support throughout. To Ceri Cunnington, Gwenlli Evans and Phil Lee Bran for their insights on Blaenau, and frequent musical interludes. Thanks also to Rhiannon White, Silvia Rose, Andy Walters and Jo Ward for their friendship, generosity and expertise. Special thanks to Creative Wales and S4C for supporting the work and to our community co-researchers who brought so much of themselves to our modern day sesiynau caban. About the series The Creative Communities Podcast shares stories from across the UK exploring how devolution, culture and creativity can unlock inclusive innovation and place-based growth. Across Series 2, you’ll hear how communities, researchers and cross-sector partners are working together to co-create culture and innovation across the UK’s devolved nations and regions. Credits Creative Communities is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted by Northumbria University. With podcast production and training from MIC media (www.micmedia.co.uk).

2. 

   13 Oct 2026

   Unity and Strength: Banner Making as a Tool to Enhance Belonging and Community Cohesion

   How can creativity strengthen belonging, connection and cultural participation in devolution? Join Community Innovation Practitioner Ruth Flanagan from the University of Manchester in Rochdale, Greater Manchester. She looks at how heritage craft and making together can help people connect with their communities, their history and the place they call home. Rochdale is a diverse borough shaped by industry, migration and generations of social change. Working with local partners, Ruth brings together women from across the borough to co-create a new community banner inspired by Rochdale’s co-operative and textile heritage. Hear how embroidery, personal symbols and storytelling helps women share their different identities and experiences, build friendships and find common ground. Through the research, their voices and ideas also become part of wider conversations about Rochdale’s cultural future. Ruth shares what the research has revealed about creativity, belonging and shared ownership, and how creative approaches can give people new ways to have a voice in the decisions that affect them. As more powers and funding are devolved locally, could research like this help communities play a bigger role in shaping cultural priorities, policy and investment? Chapters [00:00] – Welcome to Creative Communities [02:13] – Banner making, belonging and community in Rochdale [04:36] – Rochdale’s radical history of co-operation [08:26] – Culture, investment and who gets to participate [13:00] – The history and power of banners [18:00] – Making together: stitching, learning and connection [23:00] – Designing a banner that represents Rochdale today [27:00] – Taking community voices into policy conversations [30:41] – What heritage craft can teach us about cultural devolution Useful links & further reading About Ruth Flanagan’s Creative Communities research, including case study and policy paper – here (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/ruth-flanagan/) Explore the AHRC Creative Communities Programme – here (https://creativecommunities.uk/) Special thanks & credits Special thanks to the women who co-created the Rochdale banner, and to the creative practitioners, community organisations and partners who contributed to the research and this episode. Thanks to AHRC, Creative Manchester, Cartwheel Arts and everyone featured in the podcast! About the series The Creative Communities Podcast shares stories from across the UK exploring how devolution, culture and creativity can unlock inclusive innovation and place-based growth. Across Series 2, you’ll hear how communities, researchers and cross-sector partners are working together to co-create culture and innovation across the UK’s devolved nations and regions. Credits Creative Communities is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1 and hosted by Northumbria University. With podcast production and training from MIC media (www.micmedia.co.uk).

3. 

   13 Oct 2026

   Culture Labs: Place-Based Cultural Development and Delivery

   What if local people didn’t just get asked what they thought about culture, but had a real say in shaping what happens next? Join Community Innovation Practitioner Dr Claire Tymon from the University of Huddersfield in Kirklees, West Yorkshire, as she explores how local people can play a bigger role in the cultural life of the places where they live. As part of her research, Claire is developing and testing Culture Labs - welcoming spaces bringing residents, artists, community organisations, businesses and public services together to share ideas and influence local cultural action. Hear voices from across Kirklees about the barriers to taking part in cultural life and having a say in the decisions that shape it. From Ashbrow to Marsden, discover how listening, film and storytelling are starting conversations about culture, identity and belonging. Kirklees is rich in creativity, talent and local knowledge. Claire shares what the Culture Labs pilot has taught the team about trust, shared ownership and why genuine co-creation means going beyond one-off consultation and giving local people a bigger role in shaping the future of culture where they live. Chapters [00:00] – Welcome to Creative Communities [02:17] – Culture Labs: putting communities into cultural decision-making [06:00] – Belonging, access and whose voices shape culture [14:30] – Developing the Culture Labs model [16:54] – Testing Culture Labs across four Kirklees neighbourhoods [20:17] – Co-design, storytelling and learning through doing [23:23] – Taking Culture Labs into public spaces [28:46] – Different ways to participate and have a voice [30:43] – From consultation to cultural democracy Useful links & further reading About Dr Claire Tymon’s Creative Communities research, including case study and policy paper – here (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/claire-tymon/) Explore the AHRC Creative Communities Programme – here (https://creativecommunities.uk/) Special thanks & credits Special thanks to the communities, creative practitioners and partners across Kirklees who contributed to the research and this episode. About the series The Creative Communities Podcast shares stories from across the UK exploring how devolution, culture and creativity can unlock inclusive innovation and place-based growth. Across Series 2, you’ll hear how communities, researchers and cross-sector partners are working together to co-create culture and innovation across the UK’s devolved nations and regions. Credits Creative Communities is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1 and hosted by Northumbria University. With podcast production and training from MIC media (www.micmedia.co.uk).

4. 

   13 Oct 2026

   Creative Space as a Catalyst for Community Wealth Building

   What happens to a creative city when the people shaping its cultural life can’t find affordable, long-term space to stay, work and create? Join Community Innovation Practitioner Eilish Victoria from the University of Dundee as she asks how community wealth building could help Dundee’s creative community access the spaces they need to thrive. Working with Creative Dundee, Eilish brings together artists, creative organisations, researchers, city partners and the private sector. Together, they’re building relationships and looking at how creative space can support community wealth building and Dundee’s long-term future. Hear why a lack of space can push creative talent out of the city, limit collaboration and leave grassroots organisations facing an uncertain future. And discover how keeping more opportunity, investment and decision making rooted locally could help change that. Eilish shares what the research has revealed about the value creative spaces bring to a city and why lasting change needs collaboration across sectors. With Scotland’s new community wealth building legislation creating new possibilities, could Dundee lead the way in using creative space to support regeneration, local economies and thriving communities? Chapters [00:00] – Welcome to Creative Communities [02:14] – Dundee’s creative identity and its space problem [04:41] – Why affordable, long-term creative space matters [08:37] – Who owns and controls the spaces creatives need? [13:04] – Bringing creatives, property and public bodies into the same room [16:00] – The opportunities and risks of temporary creative space [20:00] – Community wealth building and a new opportunity for Dundee [25:00] – Giving the creative sector a place at the table [30:00] – Building a creative space ecosystem through collaboration Useful links & further reading About Eilish Victoria’s Creative Communities research, including case study and policy paper – here (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/eilish-victoria/) Explore the AHRC Creative Communities Programme – here (https://creativecommunities.uk/) Special thanks & credits Special thanks to the creative practitioners, organisations and partners across Dundee who contributed to the research and this episode. About the series The Creative Communities Podcast shares stories from across the UK exploring how devolution, culture and creativity can unlock inclusive innovation and place-based growth. Across Series 2, you’ll hear how communities, researchers and cross-sector partners are working together to co-create culture and innovation across the UK’s devolved nations and regions. Credits Creative Communities is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1 and hosted by Northumbria University. With podcast production and training from MIC media (www.micmedia.co.uk).

5. 

   13 Oct 2026

   BeHere: Belonging, Heritage and Ecology - Community Co-Creation with National Trust Mount Stewart

   What makes a place feel like it belongs to you — and what makes you feel like you belong there? Join Community Innovation Practitioner Lisa Rea Currie from Queen’s University Belfast in Ards and North Down, Northern Ireland, as she explores why heritage spaces can feel welcoming to some communities but distant or out of reach to others. Working with local people, community partners and the National Trust at Mount Stewart, Lisa explores how creativity, shared experiences and repeated encounters can turn heritage spaces into places of belonging. Through glassmaking, linen printing and other creative activities, co-researchers build confidence, make new connections and uncover the barriers that can determine who feels heritage is for them — from cost and class to identity and confidence. Discover what this research reveals about culture, participation and belonging, and what heritage organisations can do differently to open their spaces, share ownership and ensure more people feel they have a place in them. Chapters [00:00] – Welcome to Creative Communities [02:13] – Mount Stewart and the question of who belongs [06:48] – The barriers to accessing heritage spaces [09:45] – Putting communities at the heart of the research [14:00] – First encounters with Mount Stewart [20:00] – Exploring belonging through creativity and place [29:00] – From visitors to insiders: growing confidence and connection [35:05] – The unexpected impacts on policy and wellbeing [39:25] – Creating ‘desire paths’ to belonging Useful links & further reading About Lisa Rea Currie’s Creative Communities research, including case study and policy paper – here (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/lisa-rea-currie/) Explore the AHRC Creative Communities Programme – here (https://creativecommunities.uk/) Special thanks & credits Special thanks to the co-researchers, creative practitioners and partners who contributed to the BeHere research and this episode. Archive audio: Beauty to Last (1969) Courtesy of BFI, NMNI, Tourism NI and Northern Ireland Screen’s Digital Film Archive. About the series The Creative Communities Podcast shares stories from across the UK exploring how devolution, culture and creativity can unlock inclusive innovation and place-based growth. Across Series 2, you’ll hear how communities, researchers and cross-sector partners are working together to co-create culture and innovation across the UK’s devolved nations and regions. Credits Creative Communities is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1 and hosted by Northumbria University. With podcast production and training from MIC media (www.micmedia.co.uk).

6. 

   13 Oct 2026

   Creative Futures in Regeneration: Culture, Governance and Inclusive Growth in Digbeth

   When regeneration brings new investment and opportunity to a place, how do you make sure the people already there have a say in what comes next? Join Community Innovation Practitioner Dr Sara Hassan from the University of Birmingham in Digbeth, Birmingham, as she explores how regeneration can support growth without losing the creativity, relationships and sense of belonging that already make the area special. With major developments including HS2 and the BBC bringing change and investment to Digbeth, Sara’s research brings together artists, youth organisations, cultural institutions, policymakers and developers to ask who gets to shape the area’s future, and who gets to stay. Hear how creative workshops, walking field trips, mapping and storytelling are helping people with very different perspectives understand each other, and why devolution creates new opportunities for local voices to influence decisions about place. Sara shares what her research has revealed about inclusive regeneration, belonging and growth and why better listening and bringing different voices together can help shape change that works for everyone. Chapters [00:00] – Welcome to Creative Communities [02:14] – Digbeth: creativity, community and a place in transition [05:13] – Regeneration, investment and the risk of displacement [13:07] – Who gets heard when a neighbourhood changes? [20:00] – Bringing Digbeth’s communities and decision-makers together [30:28] – From regeneration ‘done to’ communities to regeneration ‘with’ them [36:27] – What the research revealed about belonging and growth [39:48] – What other places can learn from Digbeth Useful links & further reading About Dr Sara Hassan’s Creative Communities research, including case study and policy paper – here (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/sara-hassan/) Explore the AHRC Creative Communities Programme – here (https://creativecommunities.uk/) Special thanks & credits Special thanks to the people, creative practitioners and partners across Digbeth who contributed to the research and this episode. Thanks to artist Linda Stupart, whose performance features in the episode, and Jo Capper and Cheryl Jones from Grand Union, for supporting Sara’s recordings in Digbeth. About the series The Creative Communities Podcast shares stories from across the UK exploring how devolution, culture and creativity can unlock inclusive innovation and place-based growth. Across Series 2, you’ll hear how communities, researchers and cross-sector partners are working together to co-create culture and innovation across the UK’s devolved nations and regions. Credits Creative Communities is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1 and hosted by Northumbria University. With podcast production and training from MIC media (www.micmedia.co.uk).

7. 

   16 Sept 2026

   Coming Soon: Creative Communities Podcast – Series 2

   What can devolution unlock for the UK’s creative communities? Hosted by Professor Katy Shaw, Director of the AHRC Creative Communities Programme, the Creative Communities Podcast returns with six new stories showing what happens when communities, co-creation, cross-sector partnerships and research and innovation come together. Travel from Dundee, Birmingham, Rochdale and Kirklees to Ards and North Down in Northern Ireland and Blaenau Ffestiniog in Wales and meet Community Innovation Practitioners who are working with local people and cross-sector stakeholders to turn place-based challenges into new ideas, opportunities and action. Across the series, you’ll discover how devolution, culture and innovation can unlock growth and drive change through local voices, lived experience and practical ideas you can take into your own work, organisation or community. Series 2 launches this October. Follow the Creative Communities Podcast to hear all six episodes. Useful links & further reading Explore the AHRC Creative Communities Programme – here (https://creativecommunities.uk/) Listen to Series 1 – here (https://open.spotify.com/show/0FDuzcdxSKs0KmpVkOfhTZ) About the series The Creative Communities Podcast shares stories from across the UK exploring how devolution, culture and creativity can unlock inclusive innovation and place-based growth. Across Series 2, you’ll hear how communities, researchers and cross-sector partners are working together to co-create culture and innovation across the UK’s devolved nations and regions. Credits Creative Communities is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted by Northumbria University. With podcast production and training from MIC media (www.micmedia.co.uk).

8. 

   7 Oct 2024

   Music with Meaning: co-producing health and culture with Georgina Aasgaard in Liverpool (England)

   “We are more than a mass of cells, more than a diagnosis, more than the label of service user and carer. Music connects with that, to make it real and bring it to life.” How can we amplify the community voices and foster health and well-being in collaboration with practitioners and music? Join Community Innovation Practitioner and classically trained cellist Georgina Aasgaard from the University of Liverpool, as she explores the importance of valuing practitioners' expertise as they work with diverse communities. In this episode, Georgina examines a successful music and health programme by the Liverpool Philharmonic and Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust. You’ll visit collaborative music-making in action, including a library, a high-security hospital, and a community pantry. You’ll hear from the team and practitioners who deliver these courses and the participants who’ve benefitted from them. Discover the power of practitioner-led, co-created music in diverse communities and the need for more participant voices and practitioner support structures. Georgina’s Community Innovation Practitioner story proposes the "5 C's of Practice" - Connection, Collaboration, Creativity, Commitment, and Care - as a framework for co-designing supportive community environments. Read the transcript here (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/cip-pilot-podcast/transcript-creative-communities-episode-6/) Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Creative Communities Podcast 01:36 Exploring Liverpool's Music and Health Programme 02:36 Georgina's Journey and Research 07:26 The Life Rooms: A Unique Social Model 10:31 Impact of Music on Mental Health 20:51 Co-Creation in High Secure Hospitals 25:35 St. Dunstan's Church: A New Community Hub 36:28 Challenges and Opportunities in Collaborative Music Making 44:11 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Useful links About Georgina’s Creative Communities project - https://creativecommunities.uk/research/georgina-aasgaard (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/georgina-aasgaard/) More from AHRC Creative Communities Programme, and to find out how to get involved - Creative Communities.uk (http://communities.uk) Thanks Thanks to the Life Rooms participants and staff for their trust and support, to visiting musicians Mandy Burvill, Claire Henry and Ian Stephens, Nicola Hopson and Michael Eakin from the Philharmonic, Michael Crilly from Mersey Care, and Jacky Waldock and Josie Billington from the University of Liverpool. ----------------------------------------- The Creative Communities podcast explores the power of cultural research and collaborative creativity. Join us as we discover how communities across the UK are tackling challenges and building a brighter future through groundbreaking projects. Over six episodes, meet inspiring "Community Innovation Practitioners" leading the way. We'll follow their journeys of cultural collaboration, co-creation, and innovation, showcasing real-life examples of how creativity empowers communities to build a stronger, more resilient UK. Credits Creative Communities (https://creativecommunities.uk/the-programme/) is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (https://www.ukri.org/councils/ahrc/) (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted at Northumbria University, Newcastle (https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/). With podcast production and training from MIC media (http://www.micmedia.co.uk).

9. 

   7 Oct 2024

   Co-designing Culture: Collaborative community design with Gaston Welisch in Glasgow (Scotland)

   “The success story is a change of culture internally. That's really difficult to do. Changing the direction of a massive ship while it's in transit is a tough thing.” How can an accessible, design-led approach support genuine community engagement and collaboration? Join Community Innovation Practitioner and researcher Gaston Welisch from Glasgow School of Art as he explores how the University of Glasgow’s Arts and Humanities Partnership Catalyst is fostering collaboration between academics and industry and third-sector partners. In this episode, discover how Gaston’s use of creative methods has enhanced collaboration and understanding of Catalyst themes. You’ll hear from the Catalyst team who have designed and tested this engaging and accessible research and the participants who are benefiting from this approach. You’ll also visit the most recent Catalyst project that aims to revitalise Govan Old Church in Glasgow as a community hub. Hear Gaston’s Community Innovation Practitioner journey through the Catalyst from the challenges, to achieving valuable insights and genuine community engagement that will better design projects that truly reflect and service local needs. Read the transcript here (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/cip-pilot-podcast/transcript-creative-communities-episode-5/) Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creative Communities 01:37 The Catalyst, a Design-Led Knowledge Exchange 02:43 The Catalyst Workshops 04:24 Exploring Workshop Themes and Methods 05:10 Reflecting on the Catalyst Process 11:03 Challenges and Opportunities in Govan 18:38 The Role of Visual Tools in Collaboration 31:16 Participant Experiences and Feedback 41:49 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Useful links About Gaston’s Creative Communities project - https://creativecommunities.uk/research/gaston-welisch (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/gaston-welisch) More from AHRC Creative Communities Programme, and to find out how to get involved - Creative Communities.uk (http://communities.uk) Thanks Thanks to Dr. Cheryl McGeachan and Prof. Stephen Driscoll for sharing their thoughts and time. My thanks also to the Catalyst team: Dr. Lindsay Middleton, Dr. Neil McIntyre, Dr. Fraser Rowan, Dr. Kirstie Wild, and Dr. Michael Pierre Johnson. I'm deeply appreciative of the participants and partners for the Govan Old Catalyst for sharing their knowledge and ideas. Their contributions are invaluable. -------------------------------------------- The Creative Communities podcast explores the power of cultural research and collaborative creativity. Join us as we discover how communities across the UK are tackling challenges and building a brighter future through groundbreaking projects. Over six episodes, meet inspiring "Community Innovation Practitioners" leading the way. We'll follow their journeys of cultural collaboration, co-creation, and innovation, showcasing real-life examples of how creativity empowers communities to build a stronger, more resilient UK. Credits Creative Communities (https://creativecommunities.uk/the-programme/) is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (https://www.ukri.org/councils/ahrc/) (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted at Northumbria University, Newcastle (https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/). With podcast production and training from MIC media (http://www.micmedia.co.uk).

10. 

    7 Oct 2024

    Skaters on Screen: Capturing DIY Skate Culture & Community Action with Jim Donaghey in Portrush (NI)

    “This research project has given us a responsibility to do this. It’s put Portrush on the map as a skating destination.” How can collaboration and co-creation among skaters, partners, and local authorities build a stronger, inclusive and vibrant skateboarding community in Portrush? Join Community Innovation Practitioner and Research Fellow Jim Donaghey from Ulster University, as he explores the power of partnership, collaboration and DIY culture to support the long-standing campaign for a skate park in Portrush, Northern Ireland. In this episode, discover how preserving skateboarding heritage through videography, is helping to connect past and present generations of skaters. This is helping to foster a sense of community and supporting them to advocate for a dedicated skate space. You'll visit skate spots, meet passionate skaters, and hear from urban sports experts and lots of different community voices, from local shop owners to parents. Listen as Jim shares the story of this Creative Communities project, exploring the challenges and triumphs of creating a supported skate culture in his hometown. BBC © copyright content reproduced courtesy of the British Broadcasting Corporation. All rights reserved. www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006mvxy (https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006mvxy) Music: ‘Causeway Rebel’ Team Fresh, 2010. By Browne, Crowe, Donaghey, Dunbar, Evans, Kennedy, Friers, Shields. Read the transcript here (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/cip-pilot-podcast/transcript-creative-communities-episode-4/) Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Creative Communities Podcast 01:31 Exploring Portrush's Skateboarding Scene 03:33 The Skatepark Campaign: A 30-Year Journey 05:51 Challenges 08:12 Community Voices: Perspectives on Skateboarding 14:21 Station Square: A Hub for Skateboarding 18:12 DIY Culture and Community Efforts 27:35 Research Interventions and Their Impact 35:11 Reflections and Future Prospects 52:58 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Useful links About Jim’s Creative Communities project - https://creativecommunities.uk/research/jim-donaghey (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/jim-donaghey) More from AHRC Creative Communities Programme, and to find out how to get involved - Creative Communities.uk (http://communities.uk)Thanks Deepest gratitude to Slaine Browne for all his creative work, and to everyone at Causeway Association of Urban Sports – we’ll get Portrush a skatepark yet. Thanks to Coast Carpentry for showing us what to do, and to Igloo Pizza and Babushka Café for keeping us fed and watered. --------------------------------- The Creative Communities podcast explores the power of cultural research and collaborative creativity. Join us as we discover how communities across the UK are tackling challenges and building a brighter future through groundbreaking projects. Over six episodes, meet inspiring "Community Innovation Practitioners" leading the way. We'll follow their journeys of cultural collaboration, co-creation, and innovation, showcasing real-life examples of how creativity empowers communities to build a stronger, more resilient UK. Credits Creative Communities (https://creativecommunities.uk/the-programme/) is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (https://www.ukri.org/councils/ahrc/) (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted at Northumbria University, Newcastle (https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/). With podcast production and training from MIC media (http://www.micmedia.co.uk).

11. 

    7 Oct 2024

    Putting the Making in Place-Making: Sustainable Heritage with Alex Langlands in Neath Port Talbot (Wales)

    “Heritage doesn't matter if no one's going to engage with it. Changing how heritage is now used and interpreted means more audiences will engage with it.” How are communities working together to breathe new life into post-industrial heritage sites? Join Community Innovation Practitioner and Archaeologist Alex Langlands from Swansea University on a heritage journey through the Welsh valleys. In this episode, explore how through collaboration and co-creation, communities in Neath Port Talbot are creating a more equitable and vibrant future for the region through their heritage. You’ll visit Craig Gwladus Country Park, Nath Valley Ironworks, White Rock Copper Works and Parc Slip Colliery. All once hives of industrial activity, are now transformed into beautiful greenspaces, where people of all ages can play, connect and learn new skills. You’ll also meet many local voices along the way like volunteers, storytellers and conservation experts. Listen as Alex argues for a shift in traditional heritage management, including community engagement. However, this shouldn't be an afterthought; it should be central to preserving our heritage. The episode also highlights the dedication of volunteers who play a crucial role. (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/cip-pilot-podcast/transcript-creative-communities-episode-3/) Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creative Communities Podcast 02:34 Challenges and Community Efforts in Craig Gwladus Country Park 04:18 Volunteer Initiatives and Achievements 08:24 Engaging the Youth and Expanding Heritage Projects 23:17 Neath Abbey Ironworks: A Historical Treasure 31:38 Exploring the White Rock Copperworks 32:18 Phil Okwedi's Storytelling and African Connections 38:51 Engaging with Industrial Heritage 47:54 Concluding Thoughts on Heritage and Community 50:24 Outro and Next Episode Preview Useful Links About Alex’s Creative Communities project - https://creativecommunities.uk/research/alexander-langlands (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/alexander-langlands) More from AHRC Creative Communities Programme and how to get involved - Creative Communities.uk (http://communities.uk) Thanks Thanks to the community at Craig Gwladus Country Park, to Lisa Kirman, Park Manager, Diane Davies, Chair of the Friends group, and the merry band of volunteers who generously give their time to keep the park open and accessible for all those who enjoy its remarkable beauty and tranquillity. ------------------ The Creative Communities podcast explores the power of cultural research and collaborative creativity. Join us as we discover how communities across the UK are tackling challenges and building a brighter future through groundbreaking projects. Over six episodes, meet inspiring "Community Innovation Practitioners" leading the way. We'll follow their journeys of cultural collaboration, co-creation, and innovation, showcasing real-life examples of how creativity empowers communities to build a stronger, more resilient UK. Credits Creative Communities (https://creativecommunities.uk/the-programme/) is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (https://www.ukri.org/councils/ahrc/) (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted at Northumbria University, Newcastle (https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/). With podcast production and training from MIC media (http://www.micmedia.co.uk).

12. 

    7 Oct 2024

    Transforming Trauma: Co-creating Change Through Culture with Áine Brady in Belfast (NI)

    “I wasn't expecting this project to impact us in the way it has. It's breaking a generational cycle and it builds human connection. We've seen this happen in our group.” How can collaboration and creativity tackle the stigma of addiction and trauma? Join Community Innovation Practitioner and Local Coordinator Áine Brady from Queens University in Belfast, as she explores the transformative power of culture and creativity. In this episode, join Áine in The Market, a working-class community grappling with addiction and trauma. Here she delivers a year-long partnership with the Market Development Association and Pangur Ban, a local arts group. Together, they address the stigma surrounding addiction and trauma through "The Tapestry Project," a resident-led photography project. You’ll visit the project’s intergenerational participants, who tell the story of this community's resilience through historical, societal and economic challenges. Now, through the collaborative power of The Tapestry Project, they’ve found a sense of connection and empowerment. Hear Áine’s Community Innovation Practitioner story, which emphasises the power of collaboration, challenges policy models, and champions arts-based approaches – all thanks to genuine cross-sector partnerships. BBC © copyright content reproduced courtesy of the British Broadcasting Corporation. All rights reserved. www.bbcrewind.co.uk (http://www.bbcrewind.co.uk) , www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006mvxy (https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006mvxy) Read the transcript ⁠here⁠ (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/cip-pilot-podcast/transcript-creative-communities-episode-2/) Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Creative Communities Podcast 01:47 Exploring Belfast's Market Community 03:07 The Tapestry Project: A Community Initiative 06:28 Historical Context and Challenges 14:42 Participant Experiences and Reflections 22:31 Creative Methods for Addressing Trauma 24:22 The Power of Art in Community Development 29:40 The Tapestry Exhibition 41:37 Challenges and Learnings from the Project 43:22 Empowering Communities Through Arts and Research 46:59 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Useful Links About Áine’s Creative Communities project - https://creativecommunities.uk/research/aine-brady (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/aine-brady) More from AHRC Creative Communities Programme, and to find out how to get involved - Creative Communities.uk (http://communities.uk) Thanks Thanks to the community workers in the Market; Fionntan, Siobhan, Eimear and Claire Louise.  Thanks to Matt Faris and Karen McGuigan for your support and encouragement.  Biggest thanks go to the participants of the Tapestry project and the people of my beloved community, the Market.  Thanks for always turning up, being vulnerable and trusting me with your stories. Market Abú! ------------------------------- The Creative Communities podcast explores the power of cultural research and collaborative creativity. Join us as we discover how communities across the UK are tackling challenges and building a brighter future through groundbreaking projects. Over six episodes, meet inspiring "Community Innovation Practitioners" leading the way. We'll follow their journeys of cultural collaboration, co-creation, and innovation, showcasing real-life examples of how creativity empowers communities to build a stronger, more resilient UK. Creative Communities (https://creativecommunities.uk/the-programme/) is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (https://www.ukri.org/councils/ahrc/) (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted at Northumbria University, Newcastle (https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/). With podcast production and training from MIC media (http://www.micmedia.co.uk).

13. 

    24 Sept 2024

    What are Creative Communities?

    Is collaboration rather than competition the key to unlocking a stronger, fairer UK? Could Creative Communities be the answer? This preview of our brand new Creative Communities podcast series introduces you to some of the people and stories featured in the upcoming episodes, and gives you a sneak peek of how the power of creativity and co-creation in research is supercharging social change in our communities. In this preview episode you’ll hear about the Creative Communities programme, our Community Innovation Practitioners, and the team behind the scenes bringing the research and podcast to life. The next episodes will be released in October 2024. Read the transcript here (https://creativecommunities.uk/research/cip-pilot-podcast/transcript-creative-communities-episode-1/) Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:54 Welcome to the Creative Communities Podcast 02:38 Defining Creative Communities 04:43 The Importance of Inclusivity in Research 09:18 Community Innovation Practitioner Pilot 12:21 Meet the Community Innovation Practitioners 15:35 Importance of Community-Based Research 23:39 Creating the Podcast: Experiences and Insights 27:44 Why You Should Listen to the Podcast 34:02 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Useful Links More from AHRC Creative Communities Programme, and how to get involved - Creative Communities.uk (http://communities.uk) Thanks Many thanks to our guests Prof. Christopher Smith (AHRC Executive Chair), Kristine Zaidi (AHRC Associate Director of Programmes), Lord Neil Mendoza (Provost of Oriel College, Oxford University), Husna Mortuza (Associate Director for Public Engagement, Joseph Rowntree Foundation) and Helen Goulden OBE (Chief Executive Officer, The Young Foundation). ------------------------------------ The Creative Communities podcast explores the power of cultural research and collaborative creativity. Join us as we discover how communities across the UK are tackling challenges and building a brighter future through groundbreaking projects. Over six episodes, meet the Community Innovation Practitioners leading the way. We'll follow their journeys of cultural collaboration, co-creation, and innovation, showcasing real-life examples of how creativity empowers communities to build a stronger, more resilient UK. Credits Creative Communities (https://creativecommunities.uk/the-programme/) is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (https://www.ukri.org/councils/ahrc/) (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted at Northumbria University, Newcastle (https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/). With podcast production and training from MIC media (http://www.micmedia.co.uk).

14. 

    5 Sept 2024

    Coming soon! The Creative Communities Podcast

    What happens when you unleash the collective power of diverse communities, partners, research, and creativity? The new Creative Communities podcast explores how groundbreaking cultural research, creativity and inclusive innovation in communities can empower us to build a stronger, more resilient UK. Over six episodes, hear inspiring stories of change from across the UK. You’ll meet five Community Innovation Practitioners leading the way, working in partnership with cross-sector communities on remarkable new cultural projects. Experience first-hand how these real-life community projects are using creativity to tackle challenges, embrace opportunities and build a brighter, more resilient future founded on inclusive innovation. Whether you're a creative, researcher, funder, community leader, or simply someone who cares about the future of your local area, the Creative Communities podcast is packed with local voices, practical insights, inspiration and solutions you can use to inspire creative change and co-creation in your own community. Discover how Creative Communities combines research and community collaboration to generate innovative solutions to the big opportunities and challenges facing us today. The Creative Communities podcast is hosted by Professor Katy Shaw, programme director of Creative Communities, a research initiative funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council. The full series launches in October 2024, with a special preview episode coming in September. Credits Creative Communities (https://creativecommunities.uk/the-programme/) is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK (https://www.ukri.org/councils/ahrc/) (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted at Northumbria University, Newcastle (https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/). With podcast production and training from MIC media (http://www.micmedia.co.uk).

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Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.