Behind the scenes at our poetry exhibition launch
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A large part of our work is supporting people experiencing homelessness or who are at risk of becoming homeless.
Our recent research shows that people experiencing homelessness are likely to have significantly poorer health and wellbeing outcomes, with both their physical and mental health negatively affected.
That’s why our services offer a wide range of holistic activities and drop-ins aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of people locally, while also providing support at acute times of crisis.
One such project is ‘The Long Road South to Find True North’, which saw 80 people who are homeless or at risk of becoming so, creating special poems which literally leap from the page.
The group not only developed powerful poetry as they imagined new life-paths and asked themselves about their hopes and aspirations for the future, but also created paper sculptures, art and songs to further bring their words to life. The project was supported using public funds by Arts Council England.
Their work is being displayed at a thought-provoking, free exhibition which has just opened at Manchester Central Library, and we marked the opening with a very special launch event.
The launch included readings from some of the fabulous poems created by people accessing our Cornerstone day centre, and was a brilliant opportunity to gather together and celebrate the achievements of this innovative project.
Amanda Croome, head of our homelessness services, said: “This was a year-long project and it’s been an interesting, emotional and eye-opening experience.
“Many of the people attending our Cornerstone centre have taken part and really embraced the whole process, opening up and sharing real, raw experiences of life and what the future may hold too.
“Working alongside people as they transform their lives is at the heart of the support we provide and projects like this one not only allow participants to develop new practical skills but also help as they build vital social connections, improve their communication skills and increase their confidence.
“Many have fed back that they have benefited from taking part in so many ways and it has really empowered them to talk more openly and share their experiences to help others too.
“Seeing their hard work displayed at Manchester Central Library is amazing and I hope lots of people pop in to take a look. It has certainly made me think even more about my own life and experiences and I’m sure others who visit will be moved and inspired too.”
The group were guided by poet Phil Davenport and artist Christine Johnson, some during one-to-one conversations with people experiencing homelessness, with others through more formal community workshops and off-site visits to inspire thought and discussion.
We can’t wait for as many people as possible to visit Manchester Central Library to take a look at the work while it is on display. Details of the exhibition can be found in the events section of our website here: www.caritassalford.org.uk/event/true-north
In the meantime, the photos on this page from the launch event will hopefully give you a taste of what you can expect when you visit…
