Through hands-on clay experiences, we give young people the chance to explore creativity, find focus, and discover themselves.

The problem we’re facing

Too many young people feel isolated, stuck looking at phones and missing out on connection and creativity. Over three quarters of young people in the UK spend most of their free time on screens, and over a third report high or very high feelings of loneliness.

(Read more about this in the Generation Isolation report)

Our solution

We tackle this isolation, lack of connection and creativity by introducing young people to clay, in specially designed ceramic classes called Clay Clubs.

We fund, install pottery equipment and run Clay Clubs, in partnership with OnSide Youth Zones. These are state-of-the-art youth centres built in the UK’s most economically disadvantaged areas that give young people a safe, inspiring place to try different activities.

Why Clay?

Clay offers a uniquely hands-on, accessible way to unlock creativity, joy and important mental and physical skills.

  • It offers the chance to be fully immersed in an act of creation with your own hands.

  • Clay teaches patience and resilience, and it doesn't require any special skills.

  • Each piece, no matter how simple, brings the joy of creating something tangible and permanent, something to be proud of.

Additionally, when young people are absorbed in working with clay, youth workers have the time and space to talk with them, build trust, and play a more active role in supporting their development.

Our reach

Clay Clubs run twice a week in 9 Youth Zones:

Chorley, Wigan, Warrington, Barnet, Barking & Dagenham, Croydon, Blackburn with Darwen, Manchester, and White City.

We reach over 2,000 young people each year.

Read more about our impact here.

“Creativity and hand skills need not make a world of artists; it can make well rounded individuals who can be creative in all subjects and feel empowered by the ability to create. I passionately believe making with hands has therapeutic benefits that all children should be able to experience.”

Founder Potter, Kate Malone MBE