THE STORY
Winsford's Community Hub
TO BE THE MOST RESPECTED COMMUNITY ORGANISATION IN CHESHIRE.
The Hive's mission is to be passionate about improving the quality of life for local residents through culture, heritage, and creativity.
Our Vision
We provide and manage cultural venues, resources, volunteers, and know-how to deliver projects and events which inspire, engage and involve local residents.
WHO WE ARE
The Hive Live Ltd is a charitable Community Benefit Society and operates as a members led co-operative; one member, one vote; democratically run.
The Hive has charitable objects including the development of young people, tackling social isolation and furthering community cohesion. We believe in the power of collective ownership and local pride.
OUR JOURNEY
2011: The Beginning
Established to further the festivals that began in de bees. First step out was On The Fringe on Winsford's marina island, followed by Off Cut and the Salt Town’s Rally.
The Innovation Model
Developed and trialled a new model at The Winsford Academy where students participate in every aspect of staging events under mentorship from locally rooted experts.
2018: Community Ownership
When De Bees faced closure, we began fundraising to purchase the building. Over £50,000 was raised in five months through tireless volunteer work and local passion.
2021: A New Era
Despite pandemic delays, The Hive successfully raised its target and opened in June 2021 as a seven-days-a-week venue featuring bands, bingo, gaming, cinema, and comedy.
THE COMMITTEE
Elected by the membership at the AGM, our committee brings together a diverse range of voices from our local community.
Chris Howarth
Chair
Core Expertise
Damon Horrill
Treasurer
Core Expertise
Openness and transparency is key. The committee meets quarterly, with Finance and Operations committees meeting monthly. We welcome all members wishing to attend meetings on request and have developed working groups for community cinema, marketing, and live events.
VALUES & OBJECTIVES
Our foundation is built on five core charitable objectives that guide every decision we make.
Community Recreation
Providing facilities for recreation and leisure for those in need by reason of youth, age, hardship or social circumstances.
Youth Development
Helping young people through recreational activities and support that develops their skills and capacities for society.
Social Inclusion
Preventing social exclusion by relieving needs and assisting integration for those facing unemployment or discrimination.
Music Education
Advancing public education in relation to music, particularly through live performances and musical events.
Capacity Building
Developing skills of members in disadvantaged communities to better identify and meet their own needs.
"The trustees shall have power to establish and manage a community venue in furtherance of these objects."