About CalderdaleCreates

CalderdaleCreates connects creative professionals across Calderdale – from freelancers to those working in cultural organisations – to build skills, share opportunities and strengthen our collective voice. 

Our welcoming network is co-designed by our members, and through training, events and advocacy campaigns, we help people in creative roles to thrive. By working together, we aim to secure better support for our sector and strengthen Calderdale’s reputation as a place where creativity flourishes.

How we work

CalderdaleCreates is your network, designed and governed by members. A steering group of creative professionals, elected by their fellow members, make decisions about how the network is run.
We regularly consult with our members via events, surveys and open discussions to ensure that we are meeting your needs: we’re committed to being transparent about everything we do.

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Who We Are

Find out about our team, steering group, partners, and funders.

Meet the team who are driving our mission forward

Our In-house team at Calderdale Council

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Ruth Heritage

CalderdaleCreates Manager

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Louis Newstead

Cultural Programmes Officer

Our Freelancer Team

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Steph Russell

Comms Delivery

Copy, content and comms
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Rebekah Fozard

Arts Consultant, Producer and Project Manager

Arts Consultant and Event Producer
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Tamsin Curror

Strategic communications

Communications strategy and messaging
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Laura Channing & Udessä

AV Coordinator

Bank of images and resources

Design & Website

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Alixe Lobato & Flying Duck Studio Lab

Creative Director

Brand identity and website
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RUTH HERITAGE

PROJECT MANAGER. I’m a lived experience storyteller, multidisciplinary artist and cultural reparationist.

About me

I’m a lived experience storyteller, multidisciplinary artist and cultural reparationist. My work moves at the intersections of identity, place and power and is rooted in deep listening, relational practice and collective imagination. I’m passionate about the power of culture and creativity to challenge, transform, repair and heal especially for communities historically excluded from decision-making.
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A person with short dark hair, wearing a blazer, dark polo neck, and geometric necklace, smiles in front of a colourful geometric background with the text ALIXE and abstract lines.

RUTH HERITAGE

PROJECT MANAGER. I’m a lived experience storyteller, multidisciplinary artist and cultural reparationist.

About me

I’m a lived experience storyteller, multidisciplinary artist and cultural reparationist. My work moves at the intersections of identity, place and power and is rooted in deep listening, relational practice and collective imagination. I’m passionate about the power of culture and creativity to challenge, transform, repair and heal especially for communities historically excluded from decision-making.
Click Here

Our vision, mission and values

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Vision

We see a Calderdale where creativity flows through every community  – enriching our lives, celebrating our diversity, and shaping our future.  At the heart of this is a confident, connected cultural and creative sector, one defined by inclusivity, innovation and collaboration, valued by our communities and seen as fundamental to a thriving Calderdale.

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Mission

CalderdaleCreates connects and champions everyone working in creative roles across the borough, through a supportive network where, together, we nurture talent and develop our skills. Our inclusive programme of events, training and peer support helps cultural and creative professionals to grow, while strengthening our collective voice. We advocate for our sector locally, regionally and nationally to ensure that culture and creativity are valued and central to Calderdale’s cultural and economic future.

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Values

In play and work we will be:

  • Connected
We will be alive and attuned to what matters to all of Calderdale’s communities and celebrate our diversity.
  • Open
We will be clear, honest and responsible about what we are doing, why and how.
  • Imaginative
We will nurture new ideas and develop creative practice whilst championing our heritage.
  • Responsible
We will think and act in ways that protect and care for our local & global environment.

Our story

CalderdaleCreates emerged from the recognition that our creative and cultural sector needed a unified voice and better support. As it evolved, it took the lead on developing the borough’s cultural strategy, ensuring it represents the needs and strengths of our sector.  

Since our launch, we’ve grown into a community of over 500 creative and cultural professionals who are actively shaping the cultural landscape in Calderdale.

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Discover the Impact of CalderdaleCreates on Our Vibrant Community and Culture

CalderdaleCreates is dedicated to fostering creativity and collaboration within our local arts scene. We empower artists and cultural organisations by providing essential resources and support. Join us in shaping a thriving cultural landscape in Calderdale.

40%

Community Engagement Growth

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25%

Membership Participation Rate

50%

Event Attendance Increase

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Discover the Impact of CalderdaleCreates on Our Vibrant Community and Culture

CalderdaleCreates is dedicated to fostering creativity and collaboration within our local arts scene. We empower artists and cultural organisations by providing essential resources and support. Join us in shaping a thriving cultural landscape in Calderdale.

Discover the Impact of CalderdaleCreates on Our Vibrant Community and Culture

Impact Information Coming Soon

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GET IN TOUCH

We’d love to hear from you!