We would have published this earlier, when we first applied for the grant, but we didn’t have a blog upon which to put it yet!
Files: 2023-02-02 Naturesave Trust press release
NatureSave press release, 2023-02-02
How the NatureSave grant impacts us
Suitable spaces are few and far between in Machynlleth. With our NatureSave grant we plan to regularly hire a local community space for open days, and buy a 3D printer and a lockable cupboard to store for communal use at the open days until we find permanent premises.
So far we’ve been reliant on small donations from open day attendees. This grant from the NatureSave Trust, funded by ethical insurance provider NatureSave Insurance, will enable us to run more open days and buy our first equipment, and give us confidence when applying to hire permanent premises. We are looking forward to providing a comfortable, indoor, hobby-focused makerspace that can be used by anyone in Machynlleth, where we can make friends and reduce-reuse-recycle together. We believe this will have a positive impact on every demographic in our town, and contribute to Mach’s strong community ethos.
“I suffer with social anxiety, and really enjoy having a regular safe group to socialise and create. I’m excited to have a space that I can use where I feel at ease. It will be particularly beneficial to combat loneliness, especially on a Sunday!” –Christine Richards (she/her), director
“Since the covid lockdowns, local gathering spaces have had very erratic opening times. Also, I’m autistic and really struggle to socialise in loud and semi-public spaces like cafés and bars – I need a quiet space with some kind of central activity as a focus. Makerspaces are a great place to find my people.” –Cassian Lodge (they/them), director
About Machspace
Machynlleth Makerspace (Gofod Gwneud Machynlleth in Welsh), also known as Machspace (pronounced like “hackspace” with an M), is a local grassroots initiative in Machynlleth, Powys.
Currently Machspace runs regular open days at the local Bowling Club, hosting 20+ local makers who gather to make and mend a variety of items, share skills and materials, and socialise with tea and cake.
The long term goal is to rent premises and fill it with useful equipment, especially large or expensive items that are impractical for individuals to own. Members will be able to access the space 24/7, to use the equipment and make things alone or together. We liken makerspaces/hackspaces to gyms or libraries, and plan to keep membership as affordable as possible. As two of our members are part-time wheelchair users, we also have a strong motivation to make the space accessible to people with a multitude of disabilities.
Relevant links and contact
Email: hello@machspace.org
Website: machspace.org
Hackspace Foundation (UK-wide hackspace org): hackspace.org.uk