28 November 2025
A magazine with a mission to support Eastleigh
When Lisa Ashton founded Network Magazines, her goal was to create something that connected people, a publication that celebrates local stories, supports businesses and gives back to local causes.
Eastleigh Network Magazine, launched in October 2025, is distributed to more than 15,000 homes and businesses, with an additional 2,000 copies available in shops and newsagents for people to pick up for free.
The publication is packed with inspiring local stories, event listings, competitions, business news, and discount coupons, to keep locals informed and feel more connected to their community.
10% of proceeds from advertising in each edition are donated to charities and community projects. The first edition is supporting Momentum Fitness Charity, which provides accessible fitness sessions across South Hampshire, and the next will benefit St Francis Animal Welfare, a local charity that’s been rescuing and rehoming animals since 1953. Lisa’s plan is to support a different Eastleigh-based charity with each edition.
“My aim is to highlight and support the people who are doing incredible work locally,” Lisa explains. “There’s so much good happening in Eastleigh – I wanted the magazine to shine a light on it and give something back.”
Lisa’s background is in publishing and she saw a need to create a printed, community-driven magazine that people could physically hold in their hands.
“There wasn’t anything like it here. In an age when everything’s online, having something printed still really matters, especially for older residents who might not use the internet as much. I wanted to create something accessible, positive and genuinely local.”
To get started, Lisa sold her car to fund the first edition. “It was a leap of faith, but I believed in the idea and knew the community would get behind it.”
What sets Network Magazines apart is its collaborative approach. Lisa has partnered with Voice FM, GI Media, and Footprint Group to provide a wider range of marketing support for local businesses – from website design and printing to radio and billboard advertising.
“Between us, we can help businesses with everything they need to get noticed. It’s about collaboration and building each other up. When local businesses grow, the whole community benefits.
“The magazine is made possible thanks to the support of local businesses who advertise in it. Their support keeps it going, and in return the magazine provides them with a great way to reach new customers in the community.”
Lisa also values the support she’s received from Community First, particularly Jo Proctor, Community Engagement Coordinator for Eastleigh.
“Jo has been brilliant. She’s helped me connect with charities and community organisations who now understand that I’m here to support them, not to sell to them. She’s also helped me find out about grants and local funding opportunities.”
Although her first funding bid with Eastleigh Town Council wasn’t successful, it led to an opportunity to quote to produce their e-newsletter.
The Eastleigh Network Magazine alternates between South Eastleigh (8,750 homes and businesses) and North Eastleigh (6,864 homes and businesses) on a bi-monthly rotation, meaning residents receive an edition every other month.
Lisa is already planning her next community initiative, a free event in January 2026 hosted by Age Concern and Homes Under the Hammer’s Karen Dalmeny.
“People can bring along items to be valued and meet with local businesses, including Sienna care home and Southampton Physio. We hope to have a choir providing entertainment and lots more!”
If you’d like help from someone like Jo to support your cause, please get in touch at support@cfirst.org.uk or, if you’re Eastleigh-based, contact Jo directly at Jo.Proctor@cfirst.org.uk