Better Connect +: Men’s Creative Health

Our free weekly programme will be blending poetry, folk music and cultural experiences designed to support wellbeing, build confidence and create space for self expression.

Workshops take place weekly on a Thursday (See Timetable Here):

10am – 12noon

John Willie Sam’s Centre

Market St, Dudley, Cramlington NE23 7HS

Over the next few months participants will work with two experienced artists:
• Don Jenkins – Slam Poetry
• Gareth Davies Jones – Folk Music

Together, they will guide our participants through a varied programme that encourages creativity, connection and personal growth.

Each week will focus on one of two complementary artforms, giving participants the chance to enjoy both while developing new skills:

• Poetry –  Explore storytelling, self expression and emotional wellbeing through creative writing and spoken word.
• Singing & Folk Music –  Learn local folk songs connected to themes chosen by the group, such as mining or industrial heritage.
• Creating Your Own Work –  As confidence grows, participants will have opportunities to write their own songs, poems or spoken word pieces—individually or as a group.

Sessions will rotate between artists, with occasional self led weeks offering short creative tasks that can be done in the space or at home.

To broaden cultural experience and spark inspiration, the programme also includes cultural trips. These visits will help build cultural capital and offer enjoyable shared experiences outside the weekly sessions.

If you are interested in joining our men’s creative health group or know someone who would benefit, please get in touch.

Sessions are free to attend and are open to any men over the age of 18 from North Tyneside.

Upon joining the group please make sure you complete our Participant Registration Form to confirm your space. The form collects a variety of information, including your contact details, emergency contact, basic health and medical information, equality, diversity and inclusion data, and photograph consent information.

Got any questions? Please contact admin@helixarts.com or give us a call.

Thank you to UCL Institute Health Equity and Legal and General for funding this work.