Jacobs Wells Baths, a dance centre for over 30yrs, has been closed for a number of years

The mission to restore Jacobs Wells has received a significant boost with grants from the Architectural Heritage Fund and the Sylvia Waddilove Foundation UK, aimed at matching the committed funding from the Nisbet Trust. This financial support is a crucial step towards reimagining and restoring the iconic Grade II Listed building in Hotwells.

The redevelopment project is being supported by specialist expertise from an experienced professional team including conservation-accredited architect, Corinne Fitzpatrick. Corinne has previously worked on projects including Clevedon Pool, Bridgewater Castle House, St. James Priory, and Tabernacle Kingswood, as well as supporting with a year long repair programme of works to the Trinity Centre.

Leading the design aspect of the project is Sean Redmond and the PH3 Design team who have a history of involvement in feasibility studies and capital design scheme’s for the former Bristol Community Dance Centre, based at Jacobs Wells for over 30 years until they closed in 2016.

The structural engineering team from Mann Williams have been working on a similar restoration scheme to Moseley Road Baths. The team are being led by Nichola Dyer of Greenwood Projects, who are also providing Quantity Surveying services.

The team have commenced on-site surveys to assess the condition of the asset. These surveys will help identify costed works plans, which will include a phase of Emergency Works to stabilise the asset while the Trinity Team and the steering group work on developing an application to the Community Ownership Fund (11 October).

As part of our mission to restore the building we will be continuing to approach heritage funders to support Emergency Works alongside developing a full application to Community Ownership Fund – a £150m government scheme to save assets and amenities at risk of being lost.

Be part of future and help make the magic happen:

• Fill in our survey tell us how you would like to use space
• Share your story e.g. images / memories of space #savejwb or to info@trinitybristol.org.uk
• Write a letter of support
• Join us on one of our pop up events to find out more about our plans (20, 23 Sep)
• Comment and vote on our Pol.is
• Click here to join our mailing list to be kept up to date on ways to get involved
• Click here to donate to the Jacobs Wells Baths Fundsurfer now

Image: Sould and Cells

We are thrilled to announce our Autumn Theatre and Arts programme, a dynamic exploration of grassroots social justice which celebrates underrepresented voices and shares untold stories from Bristol and beyond.

“This season is an ode to the underrepresented voices and cultures that make up our social fabric, redefining and exploring contemporary arts through the lens of social justice.” Esther Afikiruweh, Combined Arts Producer, Trinity

The series features film screenings, spoken word performances, theatre and dance and kicks off with an immersive audio trail, 'Duppy Hunter: A Local's Guide to St Paul's' on 03 Oct. Audiences are invited to embark on a playful exploration of St. Paul's, assuming the role of Duppy Hunters in pursuit of an elusive spirit hidden amongst the streets and sights of this vibrant neighbourhood. This unique ‘listening experience’ is a collaboration between Trinity and the renowned Tamasha Theatre Company whose work supports both emerging & established Global Majority artists and arts organisations Coney who create playful digital experiences.

On 12 October, we welcome community artists Carlota Matos and Hiba Elhindi, who, in collaboration with the refugee and asylum seeker support charity Borderlands, will host 'Theatre of Migration'. This evening promises engaging panel discussions, screenings, and sharings, delving into the world of participatory theatre and the ethical considerations of creating theatre based on lived experiences, particularly from the perspective of refugees and asylum seekers.

The powerful documentary, 'I am Judah', will be screened on 20 October. The film tells the poignant story of Easton resident Ras Judah, who was unjustly tasered by the police in 2017. Despite a criminal trial, the officer responsible was found not guilty, and in September 2018, she was also cleared of misconduct. "I Am Judah" critically examines this case, giving voice to Judah as a community elder and shedding light on the broader issue of police injustices affecting many others.

Returning to Trinity on 05 November, dance artist Akeim Toussaint Buck and Crystal Zillwood present their performance, 'Souls and Cells'. This mesmerising showcase delves into themes of heritage, ancestry, and moments of inter-connectiveness through the medium of movement, dance, and sound.

As a culmination of the season, we join forces with the Afrika Eye film festival on 17 November for the 17th festival edition. Together, we will present a screening of 'Neptune Frost', the 2022 science fiction romantic musical film co-directed by Saul Williams and Anisia Uzeyman, alongside performances from spoken word artists.

Our Autumn Theatre and Arts programme promises to be a season of thought-provoking and inspiring events, celebrating diversity, social justice, and artistic expression. Join us as we elevate underrepresented voices and share powerful stories that resonate with the many communities who live in Bristol.

About Trinity Presents:

This is part of Trinity Presents - our in-house programme of music and performance, bringing world-class artists and emerging talent to inner-city audiences.

Panel discussion as part of 'Final Frontier'. Image credit: Khali Ackford

In partnership with St Paul’s Carnival/Trinity and Citizens In Power, we have been exploring how a representative group of citizens from across the west of England could create a cultural strategy and delivery plan for the region. Following our research phase we are now undertaking a series of ‘citizens panels’ with people from across region.

We will host three panels during September and October in which we will ask citizens to review the initial model for a Citizens’ Assembly for culture that was developed by the working group. The findings of the three citizen panels will be assembled into a report that sets out how the recommendations have been implemented in the design of the 2024 Citizens’ Assembly for culture. We are then planning follow-up sessions with people and organisations working in the cultural sector during November and December.

The citizens panels will be hosted by David Jubb (Citizens In Power) and small discussion groups will be facilitated to ensure everyone has a voice in the process. The reason for involving citizens in the design process is that we believe that a wide range of citizens can help improve the idea and make it more relevant to more people from across the region.

If you would like to find out more and explore questions about the idea and the process then we will be at the ‘Festival of the Future City’ on Oct 19 at Watershed where we will share our journey so far. The event will be open to questions from and conversation with the audience at this free event.

The citizens panels mark an exciting next-step for the Citizens For Culture project, made possible with the support of the Gulbenkian Foundation (UK Branch) and Arts Council England through the West of England Cultural Compact fund.

Find out more about the project

Image Credit: Alastair Brookes

We’ve had an amazing summer of music, arts and community events at Trinity and we wanted to take a moment to reflect on some of the amazing things that have happened at Trinity over the last few months.

Garden Party

On May 14, 2023, Trinity Garden Party welcomed the community to our annual, free event featuring live music, arts, workshops, and performances.

The Den, our outdoor stage, showcased a diverse lineup of talented artists from Bristol and the South West. From Laimu's soulful jazz, Ben Baddoo's Ghanaian percussion, and Magugu's Nigerian rap set the musical tone, we had an amazing range of musical talent on display. The day concluded with an energetic performance from jungle legends Ruffneck Ting duo Dazee and Jakes. Upstairs in Fyfe Hall, local poets, comedians, and spoken word artists entertained, including familiar faces and new local talent.

Workshops throughout the day offered diverse experiences for attendees of all ages. Movema's Dance Workshop ignited the Main Hall, while DMAC's Drumming and Storytelling circle was a hit. Crafts, garden activities, and a Recycle City workshop engaged children and the local community.

With over 2,200 attendees and £3000 in donations, your generosity enables us to host more community events like Garden Party in the future.

Movema

We continued our partnership with award-winning Dance company Movema throughout the summer, delivering a programme of Dance and Movement-based workshops with two Hannah More and St Nicholas of Tolentine Primary Schools.

This summer we celebrated the end of the project with a series of weekly after school Carnival Dance workshops. Held at Trinity, children and their parent/carers, along with Movema, created their own carnival procession that celebrated and took inspiration from the rich cultures and heritages of the group.

Day Parties

Day Parties in our outdoor venue, The Den, continued throughout the summer. We hosted a range of in-house day parties, including a Booty Bass x RepresentAsian takeover, as well as fan-favourites Teachings in Dub ran their first ever day party at Trinity in August. Rave on Avon, a multi-venue festival around Bristol, found it's new home on Old Market this year, and we were lucky enough to host the main stage at Trinity.

House of Weaving Song

As part of Bristol’s Playable Cities project, we hosted The House of Weaving Songs in Trinity’s Community Garden, an outdoor interactive artistic installation celebrating Somali culture. The House of Weaving Songs was created by dhaqan collective, a Somali Feminist art collective led by Ayan Cilmi and Fozia Ismail. The installation featured traditional Somali tapestries that when touched ignited the stories and musicality of Somali women’s weaving songs.

We've got loads of amazing events lined up for autumn and winter at Trinity, click here to see what's on.

Join our mission to restore Jacobs Wells Baths and transform it into a dynamic space for youth, arts, community, and learning.

Together with the community, we've developed a plan to repair, renovate and revive this amazing building. We're now working to raise £4m to deliver a phased programme of works and we're asking the people of Bristol to give what they can to support this exciting and ambitious project.

“This is building is special for me. Here I learned how to stand up straight, and I learned where my feet were. Or rather, I learned how to learn those physical things, or I learned that they could be learned. My teacher was a dancer, Helen Roberts.” Jane Nortcote

With the condition of the building rapidly declining, we're on a race against time to stop the clock on any further damage. Working with a team of specialists led by Greenwood Projects, we're carrying out detailed surveys to assess the building's condition and delivering a programme of emergency works to give us time needed to raise funds for the full repairs programme.

So far we've concentrated efforts on the North wing, which has suffered from serious damage due to heavy rain and lack of maintenance over decades. We're clearing blocked gutters and fixing slumped sections to ensure proper drainage and prevent further leaks. We're clearing, repairing and sealing valley gutters and downpipes. To protect what remains of the roof, we're adding a durable membrane to improve waterproofing and prevent any further damage to the fabric and interior space.

We're actively applying for grant schemes, including the Community Ownership Fund, to deliver a phased repair and renovation scheme and reopen Jacobs Wells Baths as a hub for community, arts, and youth provision by March 2025.

Now, we need your help to bring back Jacobs Wells Baths - together, we can make the magic happen!

• Fill in our survey tell us how you would like to use space
• Share your story e.g. images / memories of space #savejwb or to info@trinitybristol.org.uk
• Write a letter of support
• Join us on one of our pop up events to find out more about our plans
• Comment and vote on our Pol.is

Donate to the Jacobs Wells Baths Fundsurfer now

Image Credit: Alastair Brookes

This summer we programmed a series of free ‘Summer Fun Sessions’ for families and carers of children aged 0-11yrs, living in the local area. The programmed of activity expanded Friday Stay & Plays sessions for early years that is currently delivered by Central Bristol Children's Centre (CBCC) and Lawrence Hill Health Visiting Team. Across five weeks over 600 children came along to the sessions that ran weekly throughout the holidays.

‘There was a nice mix of activities and the children enjoyed getting messy with the mud and sticking feathers and leaves to their pictures. It was nice to see the children smelling the mint and rosemary as they are pressing flowers onto the bunting’ Feedback, Forest School team

During the sessions CBCC staff facilitated play activities for early years, including singing, mark making and craft activities and also  provided family support and health advise.

Connecting with our wider programme of creative activity we invited musical-theatre company Tidal Tales Collective to perform their show 'The Hare the Moon and the River'. This show used puppetry and songs to explore environmental issues in a fun and playful way.

Our forest school team were on hand hosting nature play activities from mud-art, nature trails to crown making. We also invited dancers and drummers who hosted fun activities for children (and their grown ups!).

There are more activities for primary aged children running during term time, including After School clubs, click here to find out more.

As part of our Heritage Lottery Funded project, Art of Resistance we have been gathering oral testimonies from people in Bristol who were part of, and shaped by, protest movements in Bristol over the last 100 years.

Now, these have been captured in the new book ‘Art & Activism Vol 1: A Portrait. Edited by historian and writer Dr Edson Burton the book explores how the lives of artists and activists were changed by major social movements in Bristol that changed British society. From Labour movements in the 1930s, the Punk scene in Bristol, Rock Against Racism, through to Black Lives Matter protests in the 2020s – the book explores the hidden stories of the role that art has played in activism over the last 100 years, providing a window into the struggle to create a just, inclusive society.

“The purpose of the Art of Resistance was to give a platform to voices and perspectives that are often misunderstood by, or marginalised from, a dominant media culture” - Dr Edson Burton, Curator Art of Resistance

The book is available to buy from the reception at Trinity, pop in between 9 am-5 pm Monday to Friday or contact info@trinitybristol.org.uk.

Alongside this, bringing the project to life, people can explore the stories further via our interactive Heritage Archive, where you can listen to oral testimonies, watch videos and explore photos and other items gathered during two years of the Art of Resistance project.

Art of Resistance was made possible through funding from Heritage Lottery Fund.

Next-Gen Sounds - Image Credit: Alastair Brookes

Trinity offers young people aged 14 - 25 a programme of activities to give them the opportunity to take part in drop in music-making sessions, 1-2-1 or small group music sessions in our studios. Through our Next-Gen Sounds programme, Trinity offers a supportive and creative space for young musicians of all disciplines and abilities to meet like-minded musicians, develop their craft and work on their musical projects.

"His confidence and self-esteem have moved on significantly, and I think lot of that is about him being successful at something. His ability to communicate effectively has definitely improved throughout the music sessions" - Support Worker

We caught up with Pierre, a young musician who has been participating in Trinity’s Next-Gen Sounds programme, to see how access to music education has made a positive change to his skills, ability and overall mental wellbeing.

Pierre is a young man who experienced significant positive changes in mood, behaviour, sense of belonging, self-confidence, and communication skills through 1-2-1 music sessions and Next-Gen Sounds at the Trinity Centre. Pierre had been without an educational program for approximately five years, and he lacked a sense of community and routine in his life. These factors contributed to his difficulty in engaging with other activities outside of the music sessions. However, the 1-2-1 sessions and Next-Gen Sounds became the focal points of Pierre's weeks, bringing about a significant change in his mood and motivation.

According to Pierre's support worker, the sessions made a tremendous difference in his overall mood. He arrived focused and left feeling positive and fired up, expressing a desire for other similar opportunities to engage with music-making.

Next-Gen Sounds improved Pierre's sense of belonging and social interactions. He now considers the people he interacts with as friends, and he actively engages in discussions, particularly about music. This newfound confidence extended to other areas of his life. Participating in the sessions boosted Pierre's self-confidence, while performing and producing his music increased his belief in succeeding at something he loves, elevating his self-worth. Pierre's ability to express himself and communicate improved through the music sessions, he became more connected to the present moment, and progress in freestyling showed his growing understanding of appropriate language usage.

Attending 1-2-1 music sessions and Next-Gen Sounds positively impacted Pierre's overall well-being and happiness. He consistently expressed a strong attachment to the sessions, where he found a platform for self-expression.

Pierre's story demonstrates the positive changes that occur when individuals facing challenges find a passion and a supportive community. The 1-2-1 music sessions and Next-Gen Sounds at the Trinity Centre empowered Pierre to develop self-confidence, communication skills, and a sense of belonging, highlighting the transformative power of music and community engagement.

We are pleased to bring you the latest update on the ambitious Jacobs Wells Baths Restoration Project. One week on, Trinity and our appointed professional team have begun to impliment our recovery plan for this invaluable community and cultural asset.

The historic building, a treasured part of our community's heritage, is about due to undergo a much-needed transformation to restore its former glory and ensure its safety for generations to come. As part of this work we will be undertaking a development phase that will involve consultation with stakeholders and the local community to help shape future plans.

To allow us to get there, we have identified the following phases towards that recovery:

August 2023 - Emergency Works During our project development phase, the first phase of the capital works will involves immediate and emergency repair works aimed at stabilise the building, prevent any further water ingress and ensure the site is safe to access for the design and construction teams, as well as to permit stakeholder site visits.

These crucial measures will also make the structure weathertight and prevent further deterioration. Safety is the top priority, and this phase will be completed swiftly to create a secure environment for subsequent restoration efforts.

August-September - Access Works Following the successful completion of emergency repairs, the early access works will begin. This phase will involve a light touch strip-out and construction activities necessary to prepare the building for short-term, meanwhile use and public access. These steps will allow the community to explore the building while the full restoration process is underway, giving us all a glimpse of its future potential.

This will also enable us to give the appointed structural engineer access to get under the hood of the building and fully assess its condition. This is an essential step needed to ensure future renovation plans are built from a solid foundation.

2024 Phase 1 - Repair Works The most significant and comprehensive part of the project, will involve major construction and repair works. Structural enhancements, roof repairs, restoration of the main studio lantern, asbestos removal, and deep cleaning of the boiler room are among the critical tasks planned for this phase.

2024/25 Phase 2 - Renovation Works Based on design consultation with stakeholders, these works will involve improvements to circulation and space configuration in order to realise the space's potential as a multi-use community arts hub.

These efforts will breathe new life into the Baths, reopening it as a vital community space and we aim to complete works by Spring 2025.

The Jacobs Wells Baths restoration project is a monumental endeavor that requires the collective support of the people of Bristol. We encourage those interested to sign up to our mailing list for updates on planned stakeholder meetings, public consultations and key events relating to the revitalisation of this historic civic landmark.

We will continue to provide regular updates as the project moves forward. Let us look forward to the day when Jacobs Wells Baths becomes a shining symbol of our community's past, present, and future.

How you can help

• Click here to sign up to our mailing list for updates and events
• Share your stories and images of Jacobs Wells Bath using #SaveJWB on socials or by emailing us
• Support our Jacobs Wells Baths Restoration Project by making a donation

Next-Gen Sounds - Image Credit: Alastair Brookes

After a successful first year, Next-Gen Sounds – Trinity's free, drop-in music sessions for young people aged 14-25 - is coming to a pause over the summer break. The sessions, led by Trinity tutors Amos and Pete with support from Charlotte from Off The Record, have developed a supportive and creative space for young musicians of all disciplines and abilities to meet like-minded young musicians, develop their craft and work on their musical projects.

“Coming to Next Gen has really improved my confidence in my musical abilities and songwriting skills and has given me lots of opportunities to both record and perform on my own and with other young musicians, which is awesome and super valuable” - Next-Gen Sounds Participant

In the first year, we welcomed a mix of familiar faces and young people for who Next-Gen Sounds was their first experience of the Trinity Centre – all bringing their passions for music into the building. In total, 16 young people aged 14-25 attended the sessions throughout the first year. The sessions focused on collaboration, creating a sense of community, enhancing participants' musical abilities and self-confidence. More experienced participants have been supporting their peers in the studio with one young person adding “playing along live with other people has been really fun and I think probably helped improve my playing.”

With everyone already looking forward to Next-Gen Sounds returning in September, the impact it has already made in the lives of these young musicians is clear. Participants expressed their appreciation for the program's supportive environment, the opportunities to perform, and the boost it provided to their musical abilities and songwriting skills.

If you fancy getting involved with the next term of Next-Gen Sounds, click here to find out more about the programme.

Image credit: Jacobs Wells Baths, Martin Booth

The future of Jacobs Wells Baths in Hotwells is one step closer to being secured, as the Council's CAT Group announced its decision to offer Trinity Community Arts a 35-year CAT lease, subject to receipt of a satisfactory business plan.

Trinity will also receive a six-month occupational license during the transfer phase, to enable us to undertake a detailed series of specialist surveys, funded by the Bristol-based Nisbet Trust. The Trinity team will be working with a team of professionals in conservation and historic asset preservation, led by Greenwood Projects.

"We are delighted that the Council listened to local people and everyone who campaigned to save Jacobs Wells Baths for community use. We very much look forward to working with Trinity and our community to breathe life back into this wonderful building. We can't wait to fill Jacobs Wells Baths with people, art, performance, music, laughter and friendship for years to come." Rachel McNally, Chair of Hotwells and Cliftonwood Community Association

The decision to award Trinity a CAT lease comes following a community-led campaign, backed with the support of Clifton ward Councillors, Katy Grant and Paula O’Rourke, alongside representatives from the Hotwells & Cliftonwood Community Association and Jacobs Wells Community Hub and high-profile endorsement from Actor and national treasure Miriam Margolyes.

Thanks as well to the mayor’s office and all the Council Officers who, despite limited resources, have pulled out all the stops to complete this process and to Norman Routledge, Bristol Historic Buildings who spearheaded an alternative bid for Jacobs Wells Baths.

Whilst we still have some distance to travel, this news marks the first step in the preservation and restoration of Jacobs Wells Baths - a building that not only holds immense architectural significance but also provides space to facilitate enhanced access to essential services and support for the community.

Read more about the story of Saving Jacobs Wells Baths here

How you can help:

• Amplify this news on your social media channels using #SaveJWB
• Share your story of Jacobs Wells Bath with us using #SaveJWB on socials
• Sign up to Power to Change's We're Right Here Campaign
• Support Jacobs Wells Baths by donating below

Thumbnail image credit: Jane Northcote

Bristol Commons Launch 2023, image by Ilaria Trees Meridio

Trinity are excited to be part of The Bristol Commons Launch, a movement launched in 2023 focused on co-created community power, land justice, and systemic change.

Led by Coexist, this initiative brings together individuals, community groups, and organisations across Bristol to rebuild the commons, ensuring that vital spaces, resources, and cultural assets remain in the hands of the communities that need them most.

This committment is part of our work to champion the importance of community ownership and creative spaces and ongoing advocacy for sustainable cultural assets.

Read about the 2023 launch in this BBC article.

What’s happening?

The Festival of Commoning, March 2025 s a day of action, discussion, and celebration, with:
🎶 Music & Arts – Exploring how creativity can drive connection and systemic change
❤️ Health & Care – Community-driven solutions for well-being and mutual support
🏡 Housing – Protecting and empowering fair, sustainable, and shared living spaces

The evening will round off with live music, storytelling, and a sound system session powered by 1Relation Soundsystem.

This movement is about shifting power, securing community assets, and building long-term resilience. Join us in shaping a more equitable, collaborative Bristol.

As part of the festival, we’ll be contributing to a People’s Assembly, creating space for communities to share their knowledge and help shape Bristol’s future.

Find out more about The Bristol Commons here.

Movema's Easter Dance Club. Photo credit Alastair Brooks

We were able to provide 150 local residents and users of the Trinity Centre supermarket vouchers as part of the Winter Crisis Fund. The support has come at a crucial time when families are grappling with unprecedented costs due to the ongoing cost of living crisis.

To allow for a fair and accessible process, we developed a user-friendly online form where individuals could indicate how they met our four predefined criteria for receiving vouchers. We then worked with key stakeholders to share the scheme, including printing flyers to distribute among resident groups and parents/carers whose children participate in activities at Trinity.

"I am in receipt of a low income. The shopping voucher really helps with everyday shopping, e.g., food, cleaning products. Furthermore, by being awarded the voucher, I feel listened to and valued. Thank you."

This initiative enabled us to offer some relief to the challenges posed by rising living costs, and the distribution of vouchers primarily benefited local residents with caring responsibilities. 78% of the vouchers were allocated to families whose children attend local schools or children's centres or take part in Trinity's Children and Young People program.

About the Winter Crisis Fund:

The Winter Crisis Fund is an initiative of The Society of the Merchant Ventures.

Movema Carnival Workshop - Image Credit: Alastair Brookes

Since autumn 2022, we have been delivering a programme of Dance and Movement based workshops in partnership with award-winning dance charity Movema and two local schools, Hannah More and St Nicholas of Tolentine.

'I liked that we had parents and children together, not just drop them off, they still need our (parent/carer) support, its good to dance together.' Parent at after-school Carnival Dance workshops

We recently celebrated the end of the project with a series of weekly after school Carnival Dance workshops. Held at Trinity, children and their parent/carers, along with Movema, created their own carnival procession that celebrated and took inspiration from the rich cultures and heritages of the group.

The project began with Movema connecting with local schools, Hannah More, Evergreen and St Nicholas of Tolentine, to deliver movement and dance workshops to children from reception to Year 6. Following this they hosted an Easter Holidays Dance Club where children were invited to come along and take part a mixture of dance games, routines and craft activities. Across the project a total of 190 children took part.

This schools-based project is part of Trinty’s Children and Young People programme which is co-created with our partners to enable children and young people to take their first and next steps in creativity. The project was supported by funding from the Coutts Foundation.

We sat down with Steve Rice of Downbeat Melody Soundsystem to talk 50 years of Soundsystem culture, Roots Reggae and what makes Bristol's music scene so unique. Downbeat Melody Soundsystem will be running a Day Party at Trinity on 16 July as part of Trinity Presents - click here to get your tickets.

How did you first get into reggae and soundsystem culture?

When I first got into Ska and Rocksteady the word Reggae had not yet been coined, it was around 1966. I grew up in Clapham and Brixton and went to school with, and lived near, lots of Jamaican families. My first encounter with soundsystems was with Sir Coxsone who was playing in the street where my friends lived. We used to buy weed from a pub in Clapham North and got invited to Blues dances where I really got the bug. In ‘71 I built a small system and played at parties we held in squats. In ‘73 I cut a record and it got released by Pama. When you find an art form that opens up your heart, you can’t leave it.

How do you feel that the culture has changed over the years?

I play the music I love in the way it was played to me and what I do has pretty much stayed the same. To quote an old sound man “a man would buy an amp and build all speaker box and string up the sound” and that is what my sound is.

People arrive at what is called soundsystem culture from various places and occupy various places in that space. What I do is play Jamaican music from its golden age in the style it was played at the time. My system is not the loudest or biggest but it sounds wicked and people love it.

Why do you think Bristol has such a vibrant reggae and soundsystem culture?

Bristol has always had sound system dances - my mic man Champion came here often with Jamdown Rockers and Clapham Sound and sounds from here are numerous and long lasting too. It makes sence for people relatively new to it to have something to hold to. Of course things change and it’s easy to spot differences, but I prefer to look for similarities.

When you have to repair amps and replace speakers or pay the rent and load vans at four in the morning you cuss and swear it’s the end of it. Then you string up, put the needle on a record and boom! You’re back in love again!

What relationship does Downbeat Melody have with Trinity?

I’ve played at Trinity a handful of times and it’s always been good - It’s a nice space to fill with noise.

More than that, Jamell’s mum Marcey loves my sound and in particular, love me and Ras Digby when we play together! It’s always been a pleasure to do anything there.

What can people expect from a Downbeat Melody Day Party?

At the day party they will see the soundsystem which is hand built and unique - it’s possibly the most photogenic system around.

The line up is myself and Paul Solution, who has become my key man on the sound. He has his own, much bigger sound that has played Notting Hill Carnival for years. We have a lot in common and his selection compliments mine really well. We have the same outlook and ideology of sound. Our guest is Ras Digby from Sir Jessus Sound in West London .

He has such depth of music and boxes of dubs that nobody else can touch . He is my favourite selector and over the last 20 years I have learned much from him. Together we have over 100 years of experience in sound. People who come can expect to hear the best selections of Jamaican music played by three veterans who play for the crowd and, as they say in Jamaica, “sweet the people dem”.

Many of the events this summer will take place in the community garden. Photo credit Alastair Brookes

Check out our free and affordable activities to take part in as part of our Summer programme of activity.

Meet the Unicorn

Head down to Trinity and uncover a mystical unicorn as part of this yrs city-wide arts trail that is raising money for Leukaemia Care, the UK's leading leukaemia charity. Trinity’s unicorn, named 'Silence Provokes', has been painted by Bristol-based artist Emma Blake-Morsi. People can visit the Unicorn during opening hours (9am-5pm Monday - Friday) and most weekends. However, as Trinity is an active community space, we do apologise but access may be restricted to the site during day parties or wedding.

Explore Somali Culture

As part of Playable City we are hosting 'The House Of Weaving Songs' (07 July-09 July) an outdoor interactive artistic installation celebrating Somali culture featuring 360 audio and tapestry.  Click here to find out more.

Nature and Play

Throughout the Summer we are teaming up with Central Bristol Children's centre for 'Stay and Play' for 0yrs-11yrs (and their grown ups). These sessions, on Friday's, will offer nature and play activities - for free. We will be also running a cafe where you can buy hot drinks and healthy snacks. Click here to find out more.

Family Theatre and Picnics

Following the success of The Ash the Oak and the Standing Stones early this year we have again teamed up with Tidel Tales Collective to bring another magical show The Hare, the Moon and the River Picnic Series (18 Aug). Come along - and bring a picnic.

Arts Workshops

We've got a selection of community-focused arts workshops running at Trinity throughout the summer.

During July and August Newtown residents are invited to take part in free community painting sessions where you can take part in a mandala painting activity. Hosted by Brick Project CIC the sessions will run between 5:00pm-7:00pm - the meeting point is located just across the Clarence Road, which is next to the Trinity Centre.

Starting on 17 July we have Creative Wellbeing Workshops at Trinity, delivered in partnership with Age UK Bristol and Alive Activities. Take part in free in art, crafts, and activities as well as learning ways to look after your wellbeing, while exploring ways to unwind and relax. These drop in sessions are open to everyone. Age UK and Alive Activities would particularly like to welcome Refugees and Asylum Seekers aged 50+, as well as locals living close to the Trinity Centre

On 21 July we will have an Artwork Design Workshop with artist Molly Mural. This is a creative workshop and help design a new public artwork for Stapleton Road, drawing inspiration from local culture, history, and community values you will be able to use various techniques. Click here to sign up.

Community Cafes

Starting on Weds 19 July we are inviting our key community partners to 'take over' The Den and Garden for the afternoon. We will be welcoming key community partners such as Newtown Network to host activities and celebrate the work that they do. We will provide free hot and cold drinks as well as healthy snacks.

Day Parties & Weddings

During the summer months (July-Sep) we will be hosting full-site Days parties. These are for 14+ (under 16's must be accompanied by an adult). This includes veteran soundsystem Downbeat Melody (16 July) and Booty Bass x RepresentAsian (29 July) - tickets start at £5.

Ice Road by Raucous performed in Jacob Wells Baths. Photo credit Jack Offord

In October 2022 a decision was taken to pause the process of awarding fixed-term funding to the arts and cultural sector of Bristol, in order to ensure transparency and independent decision making.

Trinity are advocating for a similar level of scrutiny regarding the future of our city's community infrastructure, given these decisions will have a far greater long-term impact on our social and cultural fabric.

Our work to promote the plight of the city's community buildings falls in line with Trinity's charitable objective to "provide or assist in the provision of facilities in the interests of social welfare". Recently we outlined the value of our many community spaces in Bristol in our report: "A community canvas – building the case for community infrastructure 2022-2026"

The disposal of Jacobs Wells Baths

Since January this year we have been working with stakeholders to create a vision for Jacobs Wells Baths, a Grade II Listed building that holds within its walls a wealth of architectural and social heritage - from its time as a public swimming baths to its 30 year history as a dance hub.

Following the information that Jacobs Wells Baths is now being put forward for disposal Emma Harvey, CEO of Trinity Community Arts, has submitted a statement to Bristol City Councils Full Cabinet meeting 04 July 2023.

Emma Harvey CEO Trinity Community Arts Statement:

For over 15 years, I have been raising concerns about Bristol City Council's failure to adequately classify and protect its community buildings.

Today, I once again bring forth my concerns regarding the disposal process being tabled today. It highlights a lack of protective asset class for buildings like Jacobs Wells Baths and Ujima House, which have been listed for disposal alongside disused plots of land, an old lock-up garage and a former public toilet.

The reduction of irreplaceable community buildings to footnotes in a 400-page agenda pack raises questions about how irreversible decisions are made about the assets we own. Disposing of irreplaceable assets without adequate scrutiny or a consistently applied process jeopardises our connection to the past, erodes our present identity, and threatens the resilience of future communities. Such a decision should involve greater care than may given by an ‘estates rationalisation’ exercise, when these decisions risk eroding the city’s landscape of public spaces where our communities - growing in size and diversity - can connect, build trust, and foster unity.

"Bristol has the opportunity to lead the way and, rather than disposing of these cherished spaces with a dismissive wave, we could seek to adopt a new ‘Public Realm’ asset use class that can change the way we define and protect civic and cultural domains for all citizens. These assets belong to the people of Bristol and as our elected representatives you are entrusted by us to act as our guardians of these shared spaces."

These spaces are more than physical structures and worth considerably more than an old bog or a dumping ground. They represent a tangible connection to our city's heritage and have witnessed countless memories and community gatherings that have shaped our city's social fabric. Not only do these spaces connect and improve the daily lives of people in their surrounding areas, they can also act as significant local economic multipliers, generating jobs and supporting small businesses. Specifically Jacobs Wells Baths is the only community hub within a locality with a combined population of 25,000 residents.

As Trinity has already set out, it has every potential to service the needs of this locality’s diverse communities; residents of HMOs and adjacent social housing blocks, older and young people, who have no other hub for locally based service provision.

I ask the members of today’s Cabinet what is the legacy you want to leave behind?

I urge the Cabinet to re-evaluate this process, as the Mayor has done with other recent called-in decisions, such as the Cultural Investment Programme.

I urge members to consider the 2019 Land for the Many independent report, which advocates for changing the way we make decisions about these critical assets.

Bristol has the opportunity to lead the way and, rather than disposing of these cherished spaces with a dismissive wave, we could seek to adopt a new ‘Public Realm’ asset use class that can change the way we define and protect civic and cultural domains for all citizens. These assets belong to the people of Bristol and as our elected representatives you are entrusted by us to act as our guardians of these shared spaces.

Though your time in office may be limited, the decisions you make today will have lasting consequences for the communities of tomorrow. Please do not miss this once in a lifetime chance to make a positive impact to safeguard the legacy of these and other community buildings for the enrichment and well-being of present and future Bristolians.

Further information

We support Power to Change's We're Right Here Campaign that is building a united movement for community power.

Read more in George Monbiot's Land for the Many independent report that focuses on changing the way our assets are used, owned and governed

Ahead of their Day Party alongside Booty Bass on 29 July, we spoke to Yusuf and Safiya Suave, co-founders of South Asian events and podcast collective RepresentAsian, about diversity in the events industry, transitioning from podcasting to events, and plans for the future.

RepresentAsian will be performing at Trinity on 29 July for a day party alongside Booty Bass as part of our in-house music programme Trinity Presents - click here to get your tickets.

How did RepresentAsian come about?

Yusuf: RepresentAsian is definitely Safiya’s brainchild. We were both home over Christmas and she wanted a “passion project”. At the time South Asians were essentially ignored outside of BBC Asian Network and Safiya felt a podcast would be a good platform to shine a light on those underrepresented. I was classically sceptical and dubious, but she talked me around so we bought the cheapest mics we could find and hit record.

Safiya: We were aware of South Asians doing bits across the UK music industry, but no one was talking about it. Daytimers were in their infancy at the time and an organisation called South Asian Audio Creatives released some research highlighting major radio stations had almost 0 South Asians on their presenting team. That was reason enough for us to try and do something about it.

How did you transition from podcasting to events?

S: So Yusuf can actually take credit for this one…

Y: By this point, South Asian DJs were being talked about and a few big names were appearing in Bristol. It’s a tough one, it was great to finally start seeing brown faces on stage, but the promoters of these events were your classic white men, perhaps looking to make some quick money off the back of a current trend. I was walking home after one of these events and sent Safiya a voicenote saying “we should be the ones booking brown DJs!”. On top of that, truly diverse dancefloors are hard to come by in Bristol and I wanted to try and create a space that encourages more POC’s to be seen and engage with the community. Often we don't feel seen so hopefully RepresentAsian is changing that for South Asians in Bristol.

What's it like working with your sibling?

Y: No comment. Joking, I would say 99% of the time it runs very smoothly?

S: We did have one big argument during a podcast recording…

Y: Oh yeah! But all was forgotten within a few hours. We know each other very well so when one of us gets annoyed, we know when to back off and let them settle. Plus, Safiya basically does all the work. I’m just the pretty face and I’m ok with that.

S: Hilarious. The face for radio, maybe.

What do you think can be done to make sure that people of South Asian heritage are better represented in events/music scene?

S: Good question – there’s a constant battle of representation vs quota box checking and pigeon holing. If you book a South Asian DJ are you expecting them to play bhangra or desi edits? We’re about to launch DJ workshops for South Asians in conjunction with the Asian Arts Agency. We hope by opening the doors to more people, we can encourage the next wave of budding talent to get involved and to make sure we’re not a flash in the pan.

Y: Whilst there has been a positive shift towards representation across the board. It comes in more forms than just DJs on a lineup. It would be great to see more South Asian (and POC in general) on the booking and programming teams at festivals and major events. More diversity at stakeholder level across music; be it management, booking agents, labels, promoters etc. We want to encourage people to pursue that career in music.

What can people expect from a RepresentAsian x Booty Bass day party?

Y: quite simply, it’s going to be a high energy, bangers – on – bangers - filled day. Expect music from across the world with bouncy basslines. We can’t wait!

What’s next for RepresentAsian?

S: We have our DJ workshops coming soon, more podcast episodes and more nights across Bristol and Amsterdam.

SAVE Britain's Heritage Buildings at Risk Register, 2023

As Bristol City Council lists Jacobs Wells Baths for disposal in their 4th July 2023 Cabinet meeting, national advocacy group SAVE Britain's Heritage have added the asset to their 'At Risk' Register, highlighting the urgent need for its preservation and repurposing, along with 67 other new entries to their representing various historic structures across the country.

The nominations received for inclusion in the 'Reuse Me, Don't Lose Me' register showcase the diverse range of endangered buildings in need of attention and revival. Alongside Jacobs Wells Baths, other newly added entries are a burnt-out grade II* bank in Somerset, a neglected grade II townhouse in Margate, ex-industrial buildings in Hull, and a collection of 18th-century estate buildings near George Eliot's birthplace in Warwickshire. Each structure has its own unique story and requires dedicated efforts to breathe new life into them.

The inclusion of Jacobs Wells Baths in the register has happened just as the Council have it is deemed that the building "offers no contribution to service delivery or the local community", in papers published ready for (see pg 282) next week's meeting.

Contrary to this claim, the building has been identified as the only viable option for community and youth services for over 25,000 residents in Clifton, Hotwells & Harbourside. Its social and heritage value has created a huge strength of community feeling about the need for JWB to be retained as a community asset, with a petition in Feburary this year attracting over 1,000 signatures.

Jacobs Wells Baths, "offers no contribution to service delivery or the local community” - Bristol City Council, June 2023

With the complexities that limit demolition or development, Trinity are continuing to support the community case for reisnstatement as a community asset, offering to take on a leading role in developing and fundraising to deliver a viable recovery plan. Embracing a quick-fix mentality has led us to this point, and it is essential that we work collaboratively with the community to find a solution that yields the best results and value for the council, especially in these challenging times as people more and more are turning to our public spaces, through initiatives such as the city's Warm and Welcoming Spaces.

The inclusion of Jacobs Wells Baths in SAVE Britain's Heritage Buildings at Risk Register demonstrates the significance of preserving this historic site and finding a suitable organization, such as Trinity, capable of attracting grant funding to ensure its long-term survival.

As the fate of Jacobs Wells Baths hangs in the balance, there is still time to save it and encourage the Council to explore all possibilities to safeguard its future for benefit of the community and future generations.

Take action today

Submit a question or statement for local Cabinet

Check out our plans for viable asset recovery and management

Share on social media using the tags #SaveOurSpaces #SoldFromUnderYou #SaveJWB

About SAVE Britain's Heritage

SAVE Britain's Heritage is a leading national campaign organization, formed in 1975, that aims to save and protect historic buildings from unnecessary destruction or neglect. Through advocacy, education, and activism, SAVE works tirelessly to preserve the architectural heritage of the United Kingdom.

SAVE's Buildings at Risk register has been active for 34 years, serving as a platform to raise awareness about disused historic buildings and advocate for their reuse to ensure their survival. With growing national attention on the importance of finding sustainable new uses for historic sites, the register plays a crucial role in preserving our architectural heritage.

The unicorn at Trinity

We are pleased to be hosting a Unicorn as part of the magical arts trail taking place throughout July and August in celebration of Bristol’s 650th anniversary.

The art trail features 60 life-sized unicorn sculptures that have been individually designed and painted by some of the South West’s leading artists and will be raising money for Leukaemia Care, the UK's leading leukaemia charity.

" I recognise our health care systems aren't exempt from many of the inequalities in our society, and wanted to create a contrasting design that hopes to raise awareness of this while also celebrating the vibrancy of colours, patterns and textures commonly associated with some ethnically marginalised communities." Emma Blake-Morsi, artist Unicorn Fest

Trinity’s unicorn, named 'Silence Provokes', has been painted by Bristol-based artist Emma Blake-Morsi and is inspired by leading research by the British Journal of Cancer on ethnic disparities within cancer patients, with the intention of raising awareness about inequalities within healthcare.

People will be able to visit the Unicorn most days between 9am and 5pm. Throughout the summer holidays we will also be offering a programme of affordable/free to access activities as part of our Children and Young People's programme so if you are bringing family, or young people you care for, and want to plan your visit - click here to find out more.

Click here to find out more about the trail including how to download the app and buy a map.

Please note that Trinity is an active community space, visitors are advised to check our listings as access may be restricted to the site during day parties or weddings.