Words for Wellbeing

What Is Words for Wellbeing?

Words for Wellbeing uses found text, poetry and simple creative prompts to support reflection, emotional expression and connection.

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Rather than starting with a blank page, participants work with existing words taken from books, leaflets, newspapers or other texts. This removes pressure and allows meaning to emerge naturally.

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The focus is on process, choice and curiosity, not on producing perfect writing.

Our Approach

Words for Wellbeing sessions are:

• Gentle and trauma-informed

• Accessible to people who don’t see themselves as “writers”

• Designed to reduce pressure and overthinking

• Focused on choice, agency and pacing

Participants are invited to engage at their own level. Talking and sharing are always optional.

Black Out Poetry & Found Text

A core part of Words for Wellbeing is Black Out Poetry and other found-text methods.

By selecting, removing and reshaping existing words, participants can:

• Express complex feelings safely

• Say things indirectly when direct language feels hard

• Explore identity, experience and perspective

• Find meaning without having to explain it

This approach is particularly effective with groups who may feel excluded from traditional writing or discussion-based activities.

Who It’s For

Words for Wellbeing works well with:

• Adults and young people

• People experiencing stress, change or transition

• Community groups and peer support spaces

• Organisations and frontline teams

• People who struggle with traditional “talking” approaches

No literacy level or writing background is required.

Words for Wellbeing at St Faith’s

Words for Wellbeing also runs as a monthly, in-person workshop at St Faith’s Hub.

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Like Mindful Art in the Park, these sessions offer a calm, welcoming space to slow down and explore creativity without pressure. Instead of visual art, the focus here is on words.

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Sessions use Black Out Poetry, found text and gentle word-based prompts to support reflection and expression in a way that feels accessible and safe. There is no expectation to write from scratch, talk in a group, or share personal experiences.

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You can sit quietly, take your time, and engage at your own pace.

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Each session typically includes:

• A gentle arrival activity using words

• Simple Black Out Poetry or found-text exercises

• Time for quiet reflection and creative exploration

• Optional sharing, always by choice

No writing experience is needed. These workshops are suitable for adults who may feel unsure about writing, find traditional discussion difficult, or simply want a slower, more thoughtful way to work with words.

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A £2 suggested donation is requested to help cover refreshments and support the ongoing upkeep of the hub.

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These sessions have been made possible with thanks to funding from Gosport Borough Council.