Invitation to Veterans and Family members of veterans

Coming Home to the Arts is now in its second year and we are inviting new veterans and family members to join our creative programme. Based at Chapter, Cardiff this is a friendly, supportive project where members of the local community and veterans and families come together to support one another in a positive way.

We start back on Friday 23rd September and runs for 10 Fridays until Dec 2nd. Participants are invited to take part in the whole day or half day.

Structure of the day:

11am - 1pm Coming Home Choir (open to veterans, family members and anyone from the wider community who would like to support) No previous singing experience required.

LUNCH

1.30pm -3.30pm Theatre based groupwork

The afternoon sessions are an opportunity for veterans and family members to explore issues affecting their wellbeing through theatre, reflective writing and discussion. This group is suitable for people wishing to explore ways of moving forward. This is a rolling group and new members can join at any time, but we invite you to commit to a 10 week programme.

This is not a therapy programme, this is an opportunity to:

  • Build your confidence and meet new people
  • Explore some of your thoughts and feelings in a supportive group environment
  • Learn new coping skills and identify goals for the future
  • Boost your mood by taking part in something positive and creative

The project is led by Alison O’Connor, an experienced groupworker and counsellor.

At the end of the 10 weeks there will be an invitation to contribute to a performance at the Mental Health Arts Festival. This is an opportunity to raise awareness of the issues around mental health for veterans and their families.

If you are interested in taking part, contact Alison on 07738 259906 for a chat or email alison@re-live.og.uk.

If you would like to speak to a veteran about his experience of the programme contact Dave on 07794 197253.