The idea
Burnley ViewPoint is a community-led magazine platforming the real stories of Burnley and the people who shape it. Managed by Burnley Words Festival and supported by a small team of local volunteer editors and writers, the online magazine has been live for a year. This project will create a new 24-page printed edition focused on 10 previously untold stories – from community volunteers and local changemakers to people who have relocated to Burnley and are building lives here.
We will commission a local early-career designer to produce the magazine. We will run professional journalism workshops for 15 participants, working with partners including Down Town and Burnley College to encourage new voices. We will nurture and support local writers in their talent development. 1,000 free copies will be distributed through libraries, cafés, colleges and community spaces across Burnley.
What we'll deliver
- Distribute 1000 copies of a free printed magazine
- Deliver at least 4 free journalism workshops
- Comission a local early career designer to help create the printed magazine
- Print 10 untold stories of Burnley
- Sign-up 7 new local writers
Why it's a great idea
This project will increase visibility for the people and stories that shape Burnley but are rarely recognised. By uncovering 10 hidden local stories, it will build pride, connection and confidence within the community. The journalism workshops will equip participants with practical interviewing and storytelling skills, supporting new and emerging writers to see themselves as contributors to public narrative. Commissioning a local early-career designer provides paid creative opportunity and strengthens Burnley’s cultural workforce. Distributing 1,000 free copies across libraries, cafés, colleges and community spaces ensures access for those who may not usually engage with arts activity and raises the stories' profiles. Long-term, the project will grow the volunteer editorial team and strengthen Burnley ViewPoint as a sustainable, community-led platform.
Steps to get it done
- Host Journalism Workshops
- Comission local early career designer
- Welcome 5 new writers to join the team
- Open Call out for writing submissions
- Burnley College Workshop Session
- Publish magazine
- Distribute magazine
