A social space on Northdown Road, in the heart of Cliftonville, Kent.

Who

101 Social is a curated social space designed to be flexible and host a wide range of events and activities. From classes to cabaret, meditation sessions, talks, live music, parties and more. The aim is to engage and serve as wide a cross-section of the community as possible beyond age, social and cultural background, gender and preferences. It was founded five years ago in a former hairdresser’s salon transformed over years of DYI work by Franca Pauli [curator] and Dario Colombo [producer]—a creative duo working on cultural and social projects, mainly in Italy, for the past 20 years.

Why

Both the space and the programme are designed to embrace the community and respond to its needs and desires in fun and inclusive ways. In a community so talented, welcoming and diverse, 101 Social is a constant co-creation with the community, with the idea of nourishing and upgrading Cliftonville’s original character in times of great creativity and wild gentrification. In an area where deprivation and safety can still be an issue, 101 Social is a welcoming place for all and one where help can be sought, both directly or via other local groups and services which we are linked with.

What

101 Social is open five days a week with weekly and fortnightly activities such as the open mic, experimental music night, textile club, film night, meditation sessions, Sunday’s soup kitchen and more. It also hosts live music gigs and takes part in festivals such as Margate Pride, Power Of Women and Refugee Week, with special programmes. Entry to all events is by donation with no one turned away for lack of funds.

How to help

There are many ways to help 101 Social! You can attend events and activities, spread the word or pitch and co-curate new activities. Your feedback and suggestions are always precious, and practical volunteer help, invaluable. Please do get in touch for this and any other information you might need. You can also make one-off or monthly donations from as little as £3. Thank you!