Inside Jelleyman's Mill: A West Midlands community hub thriving on donations

With no external funding, it relies on donations and income from those who use the space.

From live events to school holiday activities, it’s making a real impact. We take a closer look at what’s happening now and what’s coming next.

Sign up for our free newsletters today

Inside Jelleyman’s Mill, in Kidderminster, creativity and enterprise go hand in hand.

This unique space is home to a variety of businesses, from dog groomers to therapists, working alongside artists and craftspeople.

But Jelleyman’s Mill is more than just a business hub—it’s a thriving community space. Thanks to dedicated volunteers, an abandoned outbuilding has been transformed into a full-time wellbeing centre.

The centre offers courses in drama, photography, and ceramics, giving people the chance to develop new skills and connect with others.

During school holidays, affordable activities such as junior first aid and arts and crafts ensure that children have access to enriching experiences. The mill also provides space for private events, from photoshoots to community meetings, ensuring every room is in constant use. But none of this would be possible without the money raised through bookings and donations. So, how does Jelleyman’s Mill sustain itself without external funding?

Events are at the heart of Jelleyman’s success. Twice a year, JelleyFest brings the community together with live music, a craft market, and heritage tours. Their Halloween event, JelleyWeen, has become a major attraction, with volunteers transforming the entire building into a festive spectacle. Alongside these large-scale gatherings, regular workshops in arts, music, and wellbeing help generate the income needed to keep Jelleyman’s running. Looking to the future, a new community café and garden are in development, creating even more opportunities for people to meet, learn, and support each other. But Jelleyman’s isn’t just about events—it’s about making a tangible difference in people’s lives.

Jelleyman’s Mill is committed to giving back. Recently, they installed a community defibrillator with support from the British Heart Foundation. Their workshops cover essential skills, from first aid to music, helping individuals build confidence and knowledge. The school holiday programmes provide children with a safe and supportive space to explore creativity. Accessibility is also a priority, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or needs, feels welcome. With World Autism Day and JelleyFest approaching, the team is working to make these events as inclusive as possible.

With big plans ahead, Jelleyman’s Mill continues to grow.

The new community café and garden will open soon, and volunteers are always needed to help bring these projects to life. Every donation and booking helps keep the space running, allowing it to offer even more to the community. With events like JelleyFest on the horizon, there’s plenty to look forward to.

Whether it’s supporting a fundraiser, joining a workshop, or simply spreading the word, every little bit helps ensure that Jelleyman’s Mill remains a vital community hub for years to come.