Finding the Words: Creative Writing for Wellbeing

Doing something creative and expressive is great for our sense of well-being, and creative writing is a wonderful way to express ourselves. It can help us make sense of our experiences and find new and helpful ways of seeing things.

From January to June 2023 Oxford Poetry Library will be running creative writing for well-being workshops on the 3rd Saturday of the month from 1.30 to 3pm.

The workshops will offer time and space to enjoy creative and expressive writing in a safe, relaxed and supportive setting. There will be an engaging theme for each workshop, and we’ll use a variety of writing exercises and prompts to help words flow.

The workshops will be facilitated by Mary Mountford, one of the volunteer librarians at Oxford Poetry Library. Mary is currently studying for a master’s degree in Creative Writing for Therapeutic Purposes. She is also a Registered Nurse and works at Maggie’s Centre in Oxford where she runs a creative writing for well-being group and other supportive groups for people with cancer. She says, “I’ve used writing most of my life to help me think things through and express my thoughts and feelings. I enjoy writing alone and in groups. It’s a great way to learn about myself and to connect with other people.”

These workshops are suitable for anyone over the age of 16 and no previous experience of creative writing is needed.

The workshops are free. Pens, pencils and paper will be provided but please feel free to bring your own notebook if you wish.

We have space for 15 people to participate so please check availability and book a free ticket here.

You’ll be very welcome to come and discover the joys and benefits of writing. We all have a story to tell.

The Oxford Poetry Library is an accessible and inclusive space, but do email us in advance if you have any specific needs on oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com. You can use this same email for any questions you have about the workshops.