WHALE Arts is a community-led arts charity and social enterprise, set up by local people in Wester Hailes, Edinburgh in 1992. We connect our community with creative activities through the delivery of projects, programmes and events.

Our programme is a vibrant, community-driven experience that's always free and open to all, regardless of age, background or accesiblity needs. We offer a dynamic mix of activities thats include visual arts, crafting, performance, cooking, gardening, digital skills, therapeutic workshops, community wealth-building, sensory creative play, and much more. From weekly community meals and holiday programmes, to exhibitions, shows and exciting outings, there's something for everyone.

Why the community needs us

WHALE Arts is based in an area of urban social housing with pockets of extreme deprivation, and tackles some of the issues our community faces by developing targeted arts programmes that enable people to make positive life changes.

Our impact on the community

Over 1,300 local people each year participate in WHALE Arts activities. They have an opportunity to express their creativity in arts activities they would otherwise be excluded from, which can lead on to study, improved health and wellbeing, and other benefits.