Signal Film and Media
Sector:
Creative industries – Film, digital arts and cultural hub (charity)
Location:
Abbey Road, Barrow-in-Furness
Signal Film and Media began in 2008 when co-directors Loren Slater and Kerry Kolbe decided to bring their creative skills back home.
Both grew up in locally before leaving for university and building careers in film and digital media in cities like Edinburgh, London and Manchester.
But every time they worked on new projects, their ideas kept circling back to their hometown.
“We realised there was so much potential here,” Loren says. “There was talent, there was interest – but there weren’t many opportunities in film or digital arts.” That gap became the spark for Signal.
The early days were modest, but the pair were keen to provide unique opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Loren and Kerry ran small projects from borrowed spaces, delivering workshops and community events while juggling freelance work.
“We were moving from pillar to post,” Loren recalled. “But the response was incredible. People wanted to learn, to create, to get involved.”
That enthusiasm convinced them to formalise the organisation and, eventually, register as a charity.
“People often think you have to leave to find culture, but we’re proving that’s not true. And when visitors come for exhibitions or events, they see what we see – a town full of potential.”
As demand grew, so did ambition. The team wanted a permanent base – somewhere with edit suites, gallery space and training rooms. They found it in a derelict building on Abbey Road, opposite Barrow train station.
“It was a shell,” Loren said. “Floors collapsing, roof leaking – but we saw the potential.”
With support from the Heritage Lottery Fund and other partners, the pair raised the money to restore it and phase one opened in 2011.
Over the next decade, more funding followed, and the dream of a fully equipped creative hub became reality.
Today, Signal is home to a vibrant programme of activity. There are filmmaking and animation workshops for all ages, digital design courses, and a BFI Film Academy nurturing the next generation of talent.
The gallery also hosts touring exhibitions from across the UK and beyond, alongside work by local artists.
“It’s about giving people access,” Loren explained. “Access to skills, to culture, to opportunities they might not otherwise have.”
Partnership is at the heart of Signal’s model. The building also houses other organisations, from theatre groups to multicultural networks, creating a shared space for creativity and community.
“We wanted it to feel open,” Loren said. “Anyone can walk in, find out what’s on and get involved.”
But Signal’s impact goes beyond the arts. It helps young people build confidence, gives adults new skills and creates pathways into creative careers. Many who train with Signal return as freelancers or set up their own businesses locally.
“That’s what excites us. Seeing people realise they can do this – and do it here.”
For Loren, Signal’s location is a strength, not a limitation.
“Barrow is an amazing place,” she said. “You’ve got beaches, the Lakes, a real sense of community.
“People often think you have to leave to find culture, but we’re proving that’s not true. And when visitors come for exhibitions or events, they see what we see – a town full of potential.”
With regeneration projects gathering pace, Signal plans to grow its offer and reach more people. “It feels like the right time,” Loren said. “We’ve built something special here – and we’re just getting started.”
“We’ve built something special here – and we’re just getting started.”
