Some frequently asked questions about hiring one of our spaces for a community event.

Do I need a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to run an activity?  

If you are over 16 and wish to start a community activity for children (aged 16 and under) you will be required to apply for a DBS check (free of charge if you are not befitting financially from providing the activity).  

Does my activity need a risk assessment?  

Yes, you will need to carry out a risk assessment with a member of staff and will read and sign all Storyhouse policies. 

Who is responsible for marketing the activity?  

Storyhouse will list the activity on its website and on digital signage within the building however you will be welcome to do additional marketing of your activity.  

What if the activity is too popular for the space?  

All community activity should start off as a drop-in opportunity however we will work alongside you to find out if the activity needs to be made bookable.  

I am a freelance practitioner and would love to be involved in providing creative activity in Storyhouse but I earn my living from what I do.  

Please do get in touch answering the questions in the ‘next steps’ section. Storyhouse can work with you to enable your activity to take place at a point throughout the year but this will involve a hire charge for the space you choose to use. To discuss this please contact eleanor.brick@storyhouse.com.

I have an idea and a passion but I don’t have an existing group of people to take part

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch – we would love to hear your idea. You might be the beginning of a new community!

My organisation works with vulnerable people or people who are living with a disability or additional need. I am not sure if Storyhouse is a place for us. 

Storyhouse is a community cultural centre that is open and welcoming to all. We actively welcome groups of all types. We want Storyhouse to be used by people representing different parts of the borough’s population. We are an accessible venue with lifts, disabled toilets and a Changing Places toilet. Please don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your concerns.   

I am still not sure if this is right for me or my organisation.  

Please share this opportunity with others including charities, family, friends, neighbours, schools – let’s work together to make Storyhouse a community storytelling centre and put Cheshire West and Chester on the map for community cohesion and innovation.