Making Creative Work More Visible in Calderdale

Hello, and thanks for stopping by.

In September 2025, we launched the CalderdaleCreates directory – a space to shine a brighter light on the artists, freelancers and cultural organisations who live and work across Calderdale. We’ve always known this borough is full of talent. What’s become even clearer over the past few months is just how much stronger we are when that talent is visible, connected, and supported.

Why the directory matters

Individually, many of us are busy getting on with the work – often without the time or energy to promote what we do. The directory was designed to change that.

It gives people a simple way to:

• find and commission local talent
• discover collaborators
• connect cultural organisations with freelancers
• raise the collective profile of our sector

Every new profile strengthens the picture of who we are as a creative community. If you haven’t joined yet, it’s free and only takes a few minutes – and it might just lead to your next project.

👉 Create your profile: calderdalecreates.co.uk

What’s happened since launch

In October, our first gathering brought people together to help shape the direction of the network – and to be honest, the room captured exactly why this work matters. There was honesty about the challenges, willingness to share ideas, and a clear sense that nobody wants to face tough times alone.

Since then, we’ve been working on plans that will run through into 2026 and beyond, including:

• practical training sessions
• networking opportunities
• toolkits and resources
• advocacy to strengthen the voice of creative workers

This network is being co-designed with its members – not delivered to them. That’s something we’re committed to protecting.

What’s next

Over the coming months, we’ll be sharing more:

• events you can get involved in
• opportunities from across the borough
• ways to connect with others doing similar (or surprising) work
• stories that highlight the breadth of talent in Calderdale

This section of the website will be one of the places where we keep in touch – and where you can hear directly from the people shaping the network.

A final ask

If you’re already part of the directory: thank you.
If you’ve been meaning to join: now’s the time.
If you know someone who should be part of this: send them our way.

The more visible we are, the stronger our collective voice becomes – and the better equipped we’ll be to secure the support our sector deserves.

Here’s to what comes next.

Laurie Sansom
Chair, CalderdaleCreates Steering Group