FAQs for Users
A pop-up venture is a fantastic way for non-profit organisations of all sizes to promote their cause, raise funds or trial a new project, however we understand that it can also be a bit of a daunting task! We’ve listed a few of the most common questions our new users raise to help get you started! If you have any specific questions, then please feel free to get in touch via email at info@3space.org
Are your spaces really free to use?
Yes! You’re probably wondering how we can do this? We’re funded by landlords, who benefit from having a charity use the space. The only cost to our users is a damage deposit of up to £250, which is fully refunded at the end of your project, as long as the space is left in its original condition.
What about utility bills?
3Space cover all of the bills and costs associated with using these spaces, providing our users are sensible with their energy usage – this will be discussed further on a case-by-case basis.
How long can I use the space for?
The only ‘catch’ with meanwhile use is that the properties remain on the market, which means that if a commercial tenant is found, we have to leave. This can be in as little as 7 days, but we’ve been using some properties for over a year! The demand for each of our properties varies dramatically, so we’ll discuss the length of your project with you when you apply to use one of our spaces.
Am I eligible to use one of your spaces?
In order to use a 3Space property, you must be a registered non-profit organisation in the UK. This includes charities, community interest companies, social enterprises, community groups and organisations, and educational organisations who have a charitable status. If you’re not sure, please just ask us. Unfortunately we will not accept applications from individuals.
What else do I need to be able to use one of your spaces?
If your application is approved, we will ask to see a copy of your organisation’s Public Liability Insurance. We will also send you a Sharing Agreement to sign, a legal document which outlines the terms of use of the space.
What else might I need to consider?
Each space varies dramatically, and so you should make sure that you have considered any extra resources you may need in order to make your project a success! Here are a few of the most common issues:
- Phone and internet connections – it is not possible for users to install phone or internet connections within our spaces, so we recommend using mobile internet dongles, which can be purchased easily at low cost from most mobile phone providers.
- Disabled access – unfortunately not all of our properties are fully accessible for disabled users. Please ask us for further information on a particular property if you are planning a project.
- Other facilities – do you need a particular size of space? Do you need a large window frontage, an office space, or somewhere to play sports? Let us know, and we’ll do our best match you with one of our properties.
- Hours of usage – spaces in shopping centres, retail parks, or office buildings may have limited opening hours, so please double check this with us when you apply to use a space.
What kind of project can I run in one of your spaces?
Our spaces have seen a diverse range of uses, from theatre and dance rehearsals, to training and workshops, office space, art galleries, sports training, fundraising, and many more. However, we really encourage you to think of something exciting and original. There are loads of great examples of previous uses in the News section of our website, so take a look for some inspiration.
What can’t I do in your spaces?
Our spaces cannot be used as charity shops. Neither smoking or the consumption of alcohol is permitted in our spaces.
What should I do once I’m in the space?
- Keys – a representative of your organisation will be given one set of keys to access the space, and these must be kept safe at all times. Making copies of keys is strictly prohibited, unless previously agreed with 3Space.
- Fixtures and fittings – while we encourage our users to adapt the space to make it their own during the length of their project, we do not allow users to dramatically change the space, including removing/adding fixtures and fittings. Each space will require a different approach – please just ask us for more information on each property.
- Contents - the contents of the space must be kept in a good condition. Aside from fair wear and tear, any damage to the contents of the space must be repaired or replaced.
- Cleaning - we expect all users to keep the spaces clean and tidy, and dispose of rubbish and recycling regularly and responsibly.
- Noise - Amplified music, or creation of unnecessary noise which causes disruption to neighbours is not permitted.
What else?
A member of the 3Space team is assigned to each property, meaning that there is always someone at hand to answer your questions. If you would like to know more about the 3Space process or a particular property, please just send us an email to info@3space.org