Creative Exchange

A project which aims to help develop talent, skills and ideas among the creative community in Bedfordshire.

Our Creative Exchange programme is devised to support local creatives by nurturing talent, developing skills and ideas through advice, mentorship and partnership.

This year we are focusing on two main projects – ‘Working with Bedford Prison’ and a series of events under the title ‘Make it Happen’ to set the scene for the launch of this year’s Producer Hub 2026/27 in the autumn.

Working with Bedford Prison

We have programmed two Creative Exchange sessions designed to explore opportunities for creatives to work with prisoners in Bedford and to find out more about the benefits and challenges associated with creative work in a prison.

The initial workshop event on 26th May 2026 will be at HMP Bedford and is open to local creatives keen to learn more about the prison and be part of devising possible creative solutions along the following artforms: Poetry, Theatre, Film and Music.

In this first session, staff and prisoners from HMP Bedford will explain what life is like in this town centre prison and offer their perspective on how creativity and art might support their rehabilitation objectives. Creatives will have a chance to see inside the prison and ask questions about working in this context.

Book your place now – workshop places are limited.

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A follow-up ‘response’ session is planned for 25th June. In this session we’ll discuss ideas for creative projects in collaboration with Bedford prison. Joined by prison staff and BCA, creatives are invited to explore what creative interventions could support the rehabilitation of offenders. This will take place at a venue outside of the prison.

Make it Happen – Producer Hub

In preparation for our 2026/27 programme, creative producers are invited to attend a series of events that will dovetail into the start of the Producer Hub this autumn.

Event details will be posted on our Events page soon.

11th June – ‘From Idea to Reality’

This is a speed-dating style networking session to give you quick advice on making your creative idea a reality. 6pm – 7:30pm

2nd July – ‘Make it Happen in a Day’

Crash course in being a producer, with fictional case studies created and people supported to design, plan and present a project idea. Aimed at people who think they might be ready to become a producer. Half day workshop, 10am – 2pm