Lauren Quayle is a freelance photographer based in Hazlehurst Studios in Runcorn Old Town (Quayle Social - Instagram). Lauren runs the Hazlehurst Studios ‘Snap and Social’ monthly photography walks; a free, social group providing a place for local people to be creative and connect with others and nature.

As part of Destination Old Town, Halton Housing has provided Hazlehurst Studios with 10 unused devices to enable people who may not have access to a mobile phone with a camera, to join in with the ‘Snap and Social’ photography group. Earlier this week, some of our colleagues popped along to Hazlehurst studios to catch up with Lauren and hear how the donation of devices would make a difference to the group. Service Desk Manager, Harry, IT Apprentice Michael and Social Impact and Engagement Officer, Amy handed over the devices to Lauren.

Speaking to our colleagues, Lauren, said ‘It’s fantastic to receive such a generous donation from Halton Housing. I myself, and the rest of the artists at Hazlehurst Studios are passionate about providing accessible creative experiences for people in Runcorn, and throughout Halton. Photography is a great way to get out and explore places in our borough and a fantastic icebreaker for meeting new people. Now we can lend out devices to those who want to give photography a go for the first time and welcome more people to Snap and Social sessions.’

Amy, said ‘It’s been great to find a new home for company devices that could no longer be used. By gifting them to Hazlehurst Studios, we are helping to remove barriers that may prevent people from joining in with the activities and provide new opportunities for local people to get involved with the group’.

The groups are run every month and more info can be found on Facebook. The next 'Snap and Social' events are taking place on Saturday 10th August and Saturday 7th September Hazlehurst Snap & Social Tickets, Sat 13 Jul 2024 at 10:00 | Eventbrite.