Maidstone Hackspace CIC was incorporated in May 2024 and has spent its first year establishing the foundation for a long-term, community focused makerspace offering hands-on learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Maths (STEAM). During this initial year, we secured multiple funding streams, developed key delivery partnerships, and launched accessible workshops aligned with our mission of promoting creativity, innovation, and skill development for all. Our activities included the successful launch of monthly STEAM workshops, supported in part by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund through Maidstone Borough Council’s Creative Communities Grants. These sessions have supported a wide demographic including digitally excluded older adults, NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) young people, those exploring self-employment, and people facing mental health challenges. Incorporating principles of Creative Practice as Mutual Recovery (CPMR), our sessions also provided structured support for mental health and wellbeing. Participants reported a strong impact: 100% learnt a new skill 81% reported improved confidence and wellbeing 90% made new social connections 72% felt less isolated 54% experienced health improvements or unexpected benefits This work has helped reduce isolation, build resilience, and equip individuals with practical, transferable skills. Our partnership with Maidstone Borough Council’s In-House Business Advisor has also enabled referrals for those developing business ideas and pre-start-up skills. These efforts, alongside ongoing collaboration with Digital Kent and engagement with DWP, are building a strong platform for sustainable community engagement and long-term social impact.

Maidstone Hackspace CIC’s stakeholders include our members, workshop participants, volunteers, local partner organisations, and community support services based at the Maidstone Community Support Centre. These groups are directly affected by our activities and contribute to shaping our delivery. We have consulted stakeholders through informal conversations, direct feedback during and after workshops, surveys, and partnership meetings. Since October 2024, we have engaged over 21 attendees and various organisations around how our services can better meet community needs. Feedback from participants highlighted the need for access to IT equipment during workshops, options for hybrid participation (especially for those with mobility barriers), and improved workspace organisation and safety. In response, we are pursuing funding to purchase laptops, monitors, and a video conferencing system to support inclusive, hybrid delivery. We are also seeking investment in upgraded tools, storage, and furniture to create a more accessible and organised learning environment. Participants also valued the mental health benefits of creative activities, which reinforced our use of Creative Practice as Mutual Recovery (CPMR) principles. Feedback has helped us further develop structured, wellbeing-focused workshop content, particularly for those receiving counselling or experiencing isolation, anxiety, or depression. Our engagement with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has further informed our direction. It has identified that our existing training content, covering both soft skills like confidence and resilience, and technical skills in digital design, electronics, and making, can be readily adapted to support employability outcomes. This includes career transition support, digital upskilling, and business exploration for those seeking self-employment. We continue to adapt and refine our offer in response to stakeholder input, ensuring our service remains responsive, inclusive, and impactful. Our commitment to continuous consultation ensures that Maidstone Hackspace remains community-led, responsive, and inclusive. Stakeholder input is central to our ongoing development.

No remuneration was received

No transfer of assets other than for full consideration