Islington together: Gavin and Nick

In a series of interviews, we capture the diverse experiences of the people of Islington and how together, we’re tackling inequality at the root. This time, we spoke to Gavin and Nick of social enterprise, ARK

Gavin and Nick work for ARK, a coworking space in King’s Cross for creatives, social enterprises and start-ups who think community is just as important as productivity. Earlier this year, ARK was given a grant from the council as part of the Workspace Operator Recovery Grant Scheme. This was one of 12 grants given to affordable workspace operators across the borough, to help local businesses get through the pandemic and continue to provide good jobs for local people.

“We have had a longstanding relationship with Islington Council, particularly the affordable workspace team which has offered us support, resources and advice. We are currently looking to raise money for a new workspace in Finsbury Park.

We’ve started renovating a run-down, 200 square-metre hall which will become an affordable workspace for local artists, makers and freelancers or remote workers. The grant from the council has allowed us to make the building stable and safe, and to begin working on the interior. As the space develops, there will also be a cafe, gardens and exhibition space for the local community to enjoy.”

Find out more about how Islington Council is working with its partners and local people to make the borough a more equal place.

 

Latest Discover Islington blog

Back to Discover Islington blog