The Exchange

The Exchange brings together communities using poetry as a catalyst for social change. 

Our aim is to make impactful community engagement that places poetry at its heart, with radical new poetry shows performed using the power of collective voice. We’re testing the idea that poetry can be used as a dynamic community organising tool, investigating its role in a methodology that could be used in a variety of circumstances in the future.

Newcastle Hub

The Exchange Newcastle is a space where diverse voices can come together to take action on women’s rights issues. We meet bi-monthly at Newcastle libraries, working together to address the fact that women feel unsafe in public spaces. We use creative, practical ways to change this and work towards the dream of making sure all women feel safe. We are also working to address period poverty in light of the ‘Cost of Living Crisis’.

We commission artists to produce visual artworks, write new poetry, and perform at live events, working collaboratively with Exchange hub members to deliver the work.

August 2023 will see the launch of the first designated and inclusive workspace for women and girls in the City Library. Come and be part of this momentous event in your city.

Our events spotlight The Exchange’s campaign to replicate the presence of Women’s Workspace in public spaces (including libraries) across the city.

In addition to these events, a smaller group of hub members are advocates for women of minority groups: meeting with politicians and organisations in Newcastle who may be able to help create a fairer society. We commission poets to join our campaign and produce writing which captures our process and experience. 

Get Involved:

• If you would like to become part of The Exchange poetry hub please contact us [email protected]
• If you would like to work with us as a commissioned artist,
• opportunities are posted here.
• If you would like to find out more about the programme, or partner with us to Exchange ‘hubs’ in your area, please contact Head of Creative Engagement [email protected] 

Thanks to our Funders:

This project is made possible with generous funding support from the ESRC and Sidney E. Frank Foundation.