Liverpool YMCA

We have a Creative Writing group here at Liverpool YMCA which is run every Friday between 5.00pm and 6.30pm.  It started in May 2010 and was the result of a discussion regarding activities that could be useful and of interest to our members. The first sessions went really well so they have continued to date.

The group is held in a relaxed atmosphere were members can focus on many areas and write about fictional stories, real life events in people lives, poetry and much more. It gives our members an opportunity to positively express their thoughts on paper and at the same time interact and participate with other members. Even the most chaotic,  shy or quiet members have attended and produced some excellent work. I set challenges so that members can truly be authors of their own work. I have featured many of the works produced in the monthly YMCA Newsletter so all can be involved and be encouraged to take part.

I promote equality and diversity in taking the classes which I find enjoyable and welcome all members from all backgrounds who do participate. Even if language, reading or writing is a problem – members can still express their creativity through talking or use of pictures.

Not everyone will have a natural writing talent. However, my aim is to build confidence in our members most of whom are very talented in this area and using writing skills can enable them to interact with other activities, activities such as the drama group. Also the writing helps them to stretch their imaginations and gives them the tools to think about reaching their own personal goal which have been suppressed for many years in some cases.  The enthusiasm is very high and Creative Writing assists member’s meaningful use of time. I feel everyone should be encouraged.

Joy Thomas

Group Leader