Threshold Studios wins National Lottery support for new community-led heritage project in Lincoln.

This Is Us – the past, present and future of Sincil Bank, Lincoln

We are delighted to announce that we have received a National Lottery grant of £56,800 for an exciting community-led engagement project, This Is Us. The project will take place in Sincil Bank, one of the most culturally diverse areas of Lincoln. Made possible by money raised by National Lottery players, the project focuses on the changes in industry and migration in the area through the history of locally-based engineering firm Robey & Co Ltd (Est 1854 to 1988) and its workers.

Supported through the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), This Is Us has been created in consultation with local residents, community organisations, support services for young people and heritage organisations in Sincil Bank and Lincoln. The project will enable young people, families and diverse communities in the area to explore the history of industry and migration around Sincil Bank and Park Ward through photography and storytelling. A Community Ambassadors programme will offer training in archiving and recording oral histories to portray the story of the place and its people.

The Community Ambassadors will use these oral history interviews to create a new documentary film. This Is Us will also host a series of pop up screenings showing relevant historical films and produce a book about the project.

Commenting on the award, Threshold Studios’ Creative Engagement Manager Boseda Olawoye said:

“We are thrilled to have received support thanks to National Lottery players and are excited to be working with the people of Sincil Bank, Lincoln. This Is Us will present a true picture of Sincil Bank communities who have made hugely positive contributions to the past, present and future of Lincoln’s industrial success.”

Jonathan Platt, Head of HLF East Midlands, added:

“This project will bring local workers’ experiences to life through film and photography and help younger generations to understand their heritage and learn new skills. Through our new Working Lives campaign, we’re inviting other groups in Lincolnshire and across the East Midlands to apply for funding for more projects like This is Us which focus on the working lives of local people. If you have an idea for a project like this, then please do get in touch with us.”

Look out for updates on This Is Us coming soon – follow us on social media or sign up to our newsletter for more details of this and other exciting projects and opportunities.

To find out more about HLF funding visit www.hlf.org.uk.