Free art sessions for people with life-limiting illnesses

Participants of the first The Nightbird Project programme in 2023

LIVING with a life-limiting or serious illness can often be a lonely experience.

With that in mind, a local hospice is looking to bring people together for a series of free creative sessions.

The Nightbird Project is an initiative by Dr Kershaw’s designed to help adults share their stories and capture new memories, as part of a supportive group.

Ahead of this year’s launch on Saturday, March 8, an open day will be held at the Wellbeing Centre inside the Royton-based hospice on Saturday, February 15, from 10.30am to 1.30pm where people can ask questions, meet the Wellbeing team and get a feel for the project.

Each of the fortnightly Saturday workshops is supported by Jenny Gaskell, a community artist whose work explores connection and grief. Previous sessions have explored poetry, natural materials, painting, origami and even relaxing spa treatments.

Past participants have described the project as “calming and relaxing” and “friendly, colourful and bright”. One person added: “I leave every session feeling better than when I came in.”

Lisa Hoctor, senior counsellor at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, said: “There will be plenty of brews, biscuits and friendly faces to welcome you to the hospice.

Previous participants of The Nightbird Project have made flower crowns

“We welcome a diversity of life experiences, ages, diagnoses and ethnicities. This celebratory, creative project invites you to share your stories and build meaningful relationships.

“As a group, we’ll support your wellbeing and resilience while creating joyful art about your life.”

Sessions begin on Saturday, March 8, and spaces are limited, so people are advised to get in touch soon to avoid disappointment. To find out more, email drkh.wellbeing@nhs.net or call 0161 624 2727 and ask for Lisa, mentioning The Nightbird Project.