Urgent Appeal To Save The Ironworks

In a remarkably short time, The Ironworks Southend has transformed into a cultural gem in the heart of our city.

Not just a place for events and activities; The Ironworks is a safe, accessible space that enriches the lives of the Southend community many different ways.

From supporting, coaching and enabling budding local artists to showcase their work to hosting council meetings, business events, community cultural gatherings and kids clubs. The range of what The Ironworks has already offered has already proven its value to the high street and the Southend Community but with plans already afoot to restore the remaining floors of the building there is so much more that can be done.

Although funding for the long term projects is on the horizon the immediate future of The Ironworks is at risk.

The current funding from UK Government – SELEP, which was a vital part of the High Street’s regeneration, will expire on February 9th, 2024. Without additional support, they’ll have to give notice to their landlord in November.

In just a year, The Ironworks has achieved remarkable milestones:

Over 108,514 visitors welcomed
Space provided for 44 charities and local service providers
Hosting 80 weekly additional needs clubs, with over 1,000 members participating
Offering free arts and crafts for kids, engaging over 150 children weekly.
Hosting numerous events and supporting local artists and traders.
Employing 20 individuals and involving 10 regular weekly volunteers, many with additional needs.

We spoke to Ami Solomons, at The Ironworks to hear all about the challenges, their fundraising, why and how you can support The Ironworks to survive plus a heads up on a few of the incredible events planned over Halloween & Christmas.

Hear the full interview below.

To secure its future, The Ironworks urgently needs financial support to cover essential costs such as £65,000 plus VAT for rent, £22,000 for Business Rates and £30,000 for core operating costs.

To bridge this gap and access larger funding opportunities in the new year, The Ironworks needs to raise £120,000 to survive until additional funding can come through. Although this seems like a huge target, if every person who has ever visited The Ironworks donated just £2, they would be able to achieve their goal and continue to be a space that can continue to benefit everyone in the Southend community.

A crowdfunding campaign has been launched on GoFundMe.com. To donate click the button.

Donate

In a relatively short amount of time, The Ironworks Southend has become a jewel in the crown of our high street and a vital hub for creatives in all areas of the arts. A centre of culture in the centre of the city. Built and run by great people, so many opportunities and work is done to support and grow our community through the arts out of this place. If you can support them in any way – PLEASE DO!