A new creative writing group will offer local people a place to write and share ideas.
The group is launching at Hesters Way Community Resource Centre, facilitated by West Cheltenham Partnership, giving residents a welcoming space to build confidence, with no experience required.
The group will celebrate the power of stories to bring people together and give voice to local experiences.
Starting next Wednesday (February 4), to coincide with National Storytelling Week, the group will meet weekly from 1:30 to 2:30pm at West Cheltenham Hub, based at Hesters Way Community Resource Centre.
Sessions will follow a relaxed, inclusive format designed to suit writers of all abilities. Everyone is welcome, including those who may lack confidence in writing or for whom English is not a first language.
The idea for the group grew from a conversation at the recent University of Gloucestershire’s Creative Writing Festival, where Wendy Flynn, the group’s lead facilitator, spoke with Senja Andrejevic, course leader for English literature and creative writing.
The university has expressed enthusiasm for supporting creative outreach in communities such as Hesters Way, with discussions underway about potential input into workshop design and future collaborative sessions.
Initially, the group will run as informal weekly meet-ups, with light structure available for those who want it. Sessions may include writing prompts, short exercises, word sprints and opportunities to share work. Those who prefer to go along and write independently are equally welcome.
Maria Allebone and Wendy Flynn
The group will be led by Wendy Flynn, a local writer with a BA in creative writing. Wendy will draw on a wide range of books, resources and writing approaches, keeping sessions friendly, accessible and free from academic pressure.
Wendy Flynn said: “Stories belong to everyone, and this group is about giving people the space to discover their voice in a way that feels safe, relaxed and enjoyable. You don’t need experience, perfect grammar or a big idea — just curiosity and a willingness to have a go.
“Launching during National Storytelling Week feels exactly right, because every person who walks through the door brings a story worth telling. I’m excited to help people explore that, whether they want to write for fun, for confidence or simply for themselves.”
Maria Allebone, West Cheltenham Partnership community development worker, said: “This group is about creating a welcoming, supportive space where people feel comfortable expressing themselves, whether they’ve been writing for years or are picking up a pen for the first time.
“It’s part of our wider aim to help West Cheltenham grow into a strong, thriving community, by working alongside local people and organisations to help everyone feel more connected, confident and supported.”
As the group grows and participants gain confidence, there are plans to introduce monthly themed workshops, such as poetry, autobiography or writing for children.
Above all, the group aims to be inclusive, supportive and rooted in the local community, reflecting the interests, experiences and educational backgrounds of people in West Cheltenham.
Residents are encouraged to attend the first session on Wednesday, February 4 at West Cheltenham Hub, Hesters Way Community Resource Centre, Cassin Drive, Cheltenham, GL51 7SU. Contact maria@hwpartnership.org.uk for more information.