30 Oct 2008

Creative Writing is the latest addition to the many courses provided to service users at Age Concern Bristol’s Roundhouse Day Centre. I joined the group for one meeting, and the true enjoyment experienced by members was plain to see.

 

Creative writing simply involves putting pen to paper. You can be inspired by happy memories, significant events in your life or anything else that comes to mind. Leader of the group, Roundhouse volunteer Rob Henley, provided a starting point by sharing some funny moments from his past.

 

It is the act of sharing which makes this group special. What interests participants is the unique thoughts and life experiences each member brings to the group. Some said they hesitated to join the group, anxious they might not find inspiration. However, any self consciousness soon evaporated as they encouraged each other and showed appreciation as the next piece of writing was read out.

 

The benefits of a creative writing group in addition to the pleasure of self-expression are many and varied. It is a great way to get to know people, there is a lot of laughter and with active participation, the group takes on an energy of its own and gives everyone a lift. “Going about my daily life I often think of the group and it always brings a smile to my face” said one member. “I always look forward to it, I wouldn’t miss it for the world” was another of the many positive comments I heard.

 

Rob finished the session by providing a poem for everyone to read out together and then we have a good old fashioned sing song. He asks them for the next session to bring along an object that evokes strong feelings in them as the inspiration spark for the next round of writing.