Writing for self-expression at New Hope House

A new Writing for Wellbeing course is set to bring creativity, confidence, and connection to those living and working in New Hope House.

Organised by the Royal Literary Fund (RLF), the course is designed to unlock something many people lose during difficult periods of their lives: the ability to tell their own story. The initiative offers a safe, welcoming space where residents can explore writing as a tool for reflection, healing, and self-discovery.

At New Hope House, residents are already working hard to rebuild their lives. The writing taster session will add a new dimension to that journey - one that focuses not on practical recovery alone, but on personal voice and identity. Through guided exercises and shared discussion, participants are encouraged to put thoughts into words, often for the first time in years.

They will be able to share their work with the group if they want, but they won’t have to. They can keep it private if they so choose.

The session will be led by professional writer Shelley Silas whose emphasis is encouragement over criticism. There is no pressure to perform or produce polished work. Instead, the focus is on expression - writing honestly, freely, and without judgement. Whether it’s a memory, a poem, a letter, or a simple reflection, every piece of writing is valued.

For many the experience can be unexpectedly powerful. Writing offers a way to process complex emotions, revisit past experiences with new perspective, and imagine a different future. It also provides a sense of achievement. Completing even a short piece of writing can help rebuild confidence that may have been eroded over time.

Just as important is the sense of community these sessions will aim to create. Participants may get the chance to hear each other’s work, share insights, and offer support. In doing so, they begin to see themselves, and each other, not through the lens of past hardship, but as individuals with stories worth telling and worth listening to.

This initiative reflects a broader understanding that recovery is not just about stability - it’s about identity, dignity, and voice. By bringing professional writers into this setting, the RLF is helping to bridge the gap between lived experience and creative expression.

The taster session is on April 21 and is keenly anticipated by New Hope House manager William Asante. He said if the first session goes well more will quickly follow and there is even a follow-up course to consider for staff.