Rochdale Borough Culture Network

After several years, Cartwheel Arts will step down from its role as Chair of the Rochdale Borough Culture Network (RBCN) at the end of March 2026. The network is, therefore, currently exploring options for the future. RBCN has been an important resource for Rochdale’s creative community through its funding of creative projects and its support of artists’ career development. It has also supported voluntary sector organisations and community groups in developing creative projects that advance their objectives. Since 2024, RBCN has supported sector networking in the borough through bi-monthly Artist Socials, which have reached over 95 creatives. The socials have been an important space for connection, to build collaboration, for learning and artists to share their creative practice. Besides RBCN’s championing of networking, it has been an important source of financial support. RBCN is particularly proud of our grant giving to hundreds of creative organisations and freelance creatives in the borough since its inception. In 2025/2026 alone, RBCN has: ● Distributed £5,640 in Arts Council England Project Grant Match Funds, leveraging £155,510 in Arts Council England investment in creative activity across the borough. ● Supported eight Rochdale-based creatives through a total of £2,000 in grants using the GM Arts Bursary scheme to help artists access creative development opportunities. ● Distributed £10,224 in Small Grants to 13 individual practitioners / creative organisations to help them deliver creative projects and invest in artistic development opportunities within Rochdale Borough. Hebe Reilly, Creative Director/CEO of Cartwheel Arts and Chair of RBCN says: “Chairing the network has been a really enjoyable part of my role. I’ve loved getting out and about and connecting with Rochdale’s diverse community of creatives. The RBCN offer is unique, and there is something special about Rochdale in that we are able to offer the Match Funding and smaller grants across the sector. I’ve found chairing the network really rewarding and, at first hand, I’ve seen the direct positive impact of RBCN.” RBCN is exploring its next steps. To keep up to date with developments at RBCN, please sign up to the Rochdale Creates mailing list: https://www.rochdalecreates.co.uk/subscribe