We're so excited to launch our new creative arts group for people affected by self injury.

Therapeutic Expressive Arts (TEA) will be a free series of creative workshops for people in Bristol with lived experience of self injury who want to come together and get creative over the summer of 2023.

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Who is the group for?

This space will be for anyone who:

• is over 18
• Thinks they might benefit from a space to be creative and connect with others
• Wants to participate in a group for people affected by self-harm ran by people with lived experience of self harm.

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What can I expect?

A space to meet together as a group once a week to connect and share if you want, chat and get to know others, and try out a variety of creative offerings including crafts, painting, poetry, movement and music.

There's absolutely no previous creative experience needed to take part and you can take everything at your own pace.

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When and where?

The group will meet once a week on a Monday mornings in a fully accessible building in Southmead, Bristol.

The workshops will run for 12 weeks from:

12th June - 28th August 2023

10.30am - 12.30pm

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How do I get involved?

Get in touch with us by emailing:

[email protected] 

We can have a chat to understand your needs, answer any questions, and make sure this is the right group for you.

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FAQs

Do I have to talk about my self-harm?

No. Whilst this group is for people who self-harm, we do not have to talk about it nor does it have to come up in the creative activities. If you want to talk about it and/or share your experience through creative mediums, you are welcome to. Share what you're comfortable with, with respect for others in the group.

Is the group confidential?

Yes. This will be a closed group and confidential. We would only need to break confidentiality if you told us that you or somebody else was at immediate risk of serious harm.

Are you going to tell me to stop using self harm?

No. We understand that self harm can play many roles in people's lives - sometimes helpful and sometimes unhelpful. We don't expect you to stop using self harm and we won't tell you that you have to stop. But if you do feel ready to think about stopping or you'd like to talk about reducing self harm, we will support you to find the tools to help you on that journey.

What if I'm not 'creative'?

We will provide you with a range of creative offerings that you can take or leave at your own pace (as well as tea and biscuits!)

The creative activities will always be focused on flexing those creative muscles as a way to feel good, express yourself and connect with others - so there will never be pressure to produce something 'good'.

How accessible is the group?

Bristol Beacon Music Centre is a wheelchair accessible space, with level access, ramps and accessible toilets. There is accessible parking on site.

We understand that not all disabilities are visible and/or physical, so if you have any access requirements at all let us know and we will do everything we can to assist you.

I have a different question.

If there's anything else you'd like to know, please get in touch with us by emailing [email protected] and we will be happy to answer your questions.