The Screwfix Foundation, in partnership with Volunteer It Yourself (VIY), has announced its latest project to support GRIT Studios, a Community Interest Company (CIC) that has been transforming Stockport through affordable studio spaces for artists and a host of impactful community initiatives.
The Screwfix Foundation is supporting its next VIY project, which will kick off on Monday 17th March 2025. The funding will support the renovation of GRIT Studios' new venue at Kingston House, transforming it into a dynamic, multi-purpose space aimed at promoting creativity, inclusivity, and stronger community connections.
The success of this project relies on the support of skilled and enthusiastic volunteers. Joiners, plasterers, electricians, and painters are all needed to bring the vision for Kingston House to life. This project offers a chance to make a lasting difference to the community in Stockport.
The new Kingston House venue will feature creative pods to support local artists & makers at affordable prices, meeting rooms and a community workshop space. Located at the heart of the Hollywood Towers social housing estate, this project comes at a pivotal moment for the area, which has been grappling with social challenges. By bringing together local communities, GRIT Studios aims to bridge divides and restore a sense of pride and belonging to the area.
Since establishing themselves in Stockport three years ago, GRIT Studios has played a vital role in improving the local area through various initiatives. It offers free art programs and creative work experience placements for SEN students, organises "Paint & Plant" days, litter picks, and large murals to beautify the area and inspire civic pride, collaborating with organisations such as Men in Sheds, SPARC, Stockport Probation Service, and local hostels to support vulnerable groups.
The Screwfix Foundation’s partnership with VIY ensures that this project does more than just renovate a building—it creates opportunities for young people to learn trade skills like joinery, plastering, electrical work, and painting. VIY’s mission to help people who are not in education, employment, or training, and at-risk young people learn trade skills whilst renovating valuable community spaces aligns perfectly with GRIT Studios’ dedication to uplifting the local community.
“We’re proud to support Volunteer It Yourself with another inspiring project," says Liz Bell, Screwfix Foundation Trustee. "We’ve been blown away by the support offered by Screwfix colleagues and customers at our previous projects in Dagenham and Nottingham and we’re looking forward to rolling up our sleeves and getting involved with GRIT Studios in Stockport in March. If you have time to lend a hand, please get in touch.”
For more information about The Screwfix Foundation and its impact, or to apply for a grant, visit screwfixfoundation.com
