Rules
We’re excited to have you join our community of makers, hackers, and tinkerers! As a shared space, we all work together to keep things friendly, productive, and welcoming. Here’s what you need to know to get started.
Rules of Conduct
- Our hackspace operates in the evening while the property owners use the space during the day.
- Please help set up at the start of a session – this includes arranging tables, chairs, and preparing the space for use.
- Please help put everything away at the end of the session – this ensures we leave the space clean and ready for the next use.
- Respect the property and equipment – treat everything as if it were your own.
Use of Facilities
- We have access to kitchen facilities – feel free to make a drink or a snack, just be sure to tidy up afterwards so everyone can enjoy a clean space.
- Tools and equipment are available for all members to use.
- Consumables are the responsibility of individual members, unless they have been donated to the hackspace.
Hackspace Etiquette
- Noise levels: Be mindful of others working on projects. Use headphones if listening to music.
- Respect shared tools: Return tools to their proper place after use.
- Project storage: If you need to store a project, check with a group leader and label it with your name.
- Be welcoming: Help new members feel included and supported. Introduce yourself, share what you’re working on, and talk about your interests—there’s a good chance they might share a similar passion. Encourage them to ask questions and offer guidance to help them feel at home in the hackspace.
Tool & Equipment Usage
- Inductions Required: Some tools (such as Soldering Irons, Sewing Machines, and 3D Printers) require a safety induction before use. Check with an experienced member.
- Consumables Policy: Members are responsible for providing their own consumables and materials for personal projects. However, we do occasionally receive donated materials, which are free for members to use on a first-come, first-served basis.
Funding & Grants
Many of our tools and equipment are funded through grant applications. We encourage members to apply for small, easy-to-access funding opportunities to help grow our resources. If you are interested in applying for funding, please speak to one of the hackspace leaders. They can provide guidance on available grants, help with the application process, and offer advice on what types of projects may be eligible. Securing funding not only benefits your own projects but also strengthens the hackspace for all members.
Membership Benefits
As a member, you have access to:
- Peer support from fellow makers.
- All available tools and equipment.
- Workshops and learning opportunities (when scheduled).
- Opportunities to apply for small individual funding grants to support your own projects and contribute to the growth of the hackspace’s equipment and resources.
Membership Payments
Membership fees are suggested at £10 per month by standing order (preferred), or £3 per session – we can accept cash payments if required. If the suggested £10 per month is difficult, please talk to a hackspace leader – we want membership to be accessible to everyone.
Please set up a standing order using the following details:
- Account Name: Doncaster Hackspace
- Sort Code: 52-21-38
- Account Number: 26311577
- Reference: Your Full Name
Your contributions help keep the hackspace running and cover essential costs like consumables, equipment and maintenance.
Use of Facilities
- Project Storage: Storage is limited due to us sharing the space, but we will try to accommodate where possible. Please check with a group leader before leaving a project behind.
- Meetings & Member Participation: We hold occasional meetings to discuss the future of the hackspace. Members are encouraged to attend, share ideas, and help shape the direction of the space. Your input is valuable in growing and improving our community.
- Help Grow the Space: The hackspace relies on members spreading the word and inviting people they know to join us. Encouraging new members helps grow our community and strengthens the space for everyone.
- Workshops & Skill Shares: Members are encouraged to share their skills by running workshops or informal teaching sessions.
- Funding & Sponsorship: If members know of funding opportunities, they’re encouraged to bring them to the group’s attention.
Code of Conduct
We expect all members to treat each other with respect, inclusivity, and kindness. Any form of harassment, discrimination, or disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated. If conflicts arise, members should try to resolve them amicably, or escalate concerns to a committee member for mediation.
Communication Channels
- Website – Visit us at www.doncasterhackspace.org for updates and more information.
- Members' Facebook & Messenger Chat Group – Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/391755099948770.
- Email – Reach out via hello@doncasterhackspace.org for official inquiries.
Emergency & Contact Information
- Emergency Procedures: In case of fire, evacuate the building immediately via the nearest exit (there are only two) and meet outside at a safe distance for a headcount. Call 999 if necessary. If you witness an injury or accident, administer first aid if trained and report it to a committee member.
- Contacting the Committee: If you need support, have concerns, or would like to raise an issue, you can contact the committee via email at hello@doncasterhackspace.org or speak to a committee member in person during a session.
Other Important Information
- Be respectful to other members – we are an inclusive and friendly space.
- Safety first – use tools responsibly and ask for guidance if unsure.
- Report any broken or missing tools/equipment to a group leader.
- Label your personal items if left at the space.
- Contribute when you can – whether through donations, volunteering, or simply helping tidy up.
- If you have any questions, feel free to ask any existing members. We’re here to support each other.