Grief-Writing Workshop

A gentle, low-pressure workshop for anyone wanting to creatively explore the landscape of loss.

Writing can be a powerful way to release and work through emotions. By pouring what’s in our minds onto paper, we can quiet our thoughts and open up space for new ideas and perspectives.

This 90-minute workshop will be led by poet Kat Lyons, who will begin by sharing their own experience of using writing to understand and express their grief after their mother died. The session will involve poetry readings and discussions, and a variety of accessible writing exercises exploring ways of capturing memories, acknowledging emotions and creatively navigating feelings of grief and loss. There will be opportunities to share work with the group should participants feel comfortable doing so.

This session will explore:

• How can writing help us express and process emotions?
• What techniques can help us write when faced with a blank page?
• How can writing help soothe repetitive thoughts and help us feel more focused and connected?
  

This session is part of a wellbeing program for writers, and is designed as a creative initiative, although individuals may find it beneficial in other ways. It is suitable for adults of all levels of writing experience and no special equipment is required – all you need to take part is a pen and paper and a willingness to write. The poems explored in this session will focus on grief, but the exercises are designed to enable participants to write about less challenging aspects of loss if they choose.

About Kat Lyons

Kat Lyons is a Queer Bristol-based writer, performer, workshop facilitator and creative producer whose work is grounded in everyday politics and a love of storytelling. Their poetry has been featured in Under the Radar, Ink Sweat & Tears and Bath Magg, and their collection Love Beneath the Nails is published by Verve Poetry Press. Kat was Bristol City Poet from 2022-2024, and recently completed Dry Season, a multi-year spoken word project and touring theatre show exploring age, identity and the menopause.

Kat performs throughout the UK, writes for commission, and produces and facilitates poetry events and creative workshops for people of all ages. Fascinated by the ways stories can reconnect us to our emotions, our world and each other, they are passionate about using art – and artistic collaborations – to build understanding and empathy. They believe everyone has a story to tell, and a voice worth hearing.

Low cost places available

We believe the price of our courses should never be a barrier to your learning. If you are unable to pay for a place on this event, you can apply for a bursary place.

Wellbeing for Writers 2025:

New Writing South is delighted to bring back Wellbeing for Writers in 2025! Writing is often a solitary journey, full of challenges that demand resilience. This summer, we’re creating space for writers to nurture their creativity and well-being.

Whether you need meditation and rest to recharge your creative energy, strategies for tackling difficult themes in your work, or movement to align body and mind, Wellbeing for Writers 2025 has something for you. Join us and create in the sunlight this summer!