Earlier this month, we were delighted to host the participants of A Life Written, a life writing programme for older people, for a special showcase event at Dragon Hall. The occasion marked the launch of A Life Written Six, an anthology of LGBTQIA+ writing featuring candid, heartfelt stories told through words and illustrations.
An experience I shall always treasure. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to take part in an inspiring, challenging and rewarding 10 weeks. It has changed us all, some much more than others, but all positively.
A Life Written, delivered in partnership with Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), creates life-writing workshops for the over 60s.
Initiated by ARU’s Tory Young, Associate Professor of English Literature, and delivered in partnership with NCW and with Age UK Norwich’s support, this programme uses memoir and life writing to build confidence and foster connection. By involving students from ARU, intergenerational engagement is encouraged and supported. The cohort works towards publication of an anthology and hosts a showcase of their work for friends and family.
This year’s programme invited 16 LGBTQIA+ writers from Norfolk aged 60+ to come together and share their life stories.
The group was led by memoirist and author, Karen McLeod (Lifting Off, The Case of the Missing Eyelash), and cartoonist, David Shenton (Forty Lies: A Case of Ipsedixitism).
The A Life Written anthology features stories of identity, love and loss, shared with humour and heart.
Taking part in A Life Written at the National Centre for Writing has been life-changing for me.
A Life Written would not be possible without the generous funding from Anglia Ruskin University, the East of England Co-Op Community Cares Fund and Simon Gibson Charitable Trust. With thanks to Age UK Norwich.
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