Stories and songs of sanctuary

With their Society Project Grant from the Patricia Fay Memorial Fund, The Arts Society Tyneside was able to support a musical project called ‘Stories of Sanctuary’. Citizen Songwriters worked with participants from marginalised backgrounds at Newcastle Cathedral to share experiences in a safe environment and allowed them to put their stories into song. The project worked specifically with people seeking sanctuary, people who are isolated due to mental health experiences as well as those in recovery from alcohol addiction.

The Project began with 10 workshops sessions attended by 58 participants from Newcastle and Sunderland. At the workshops those that took part were able to share the stories and experience which, with the help of local established singer/song writers and musicians, were put together to create songs about seeking sanctuary.

The series of workshops culminated in a celebration concert at Newcastle Cathedral in July and other performances in region including Ripon Cathedral, Sunderland Minster and the Durham Fringe Festival.

Apart from the wonderful songs that were created, the project helped to boost the self-confidence of those that took part. It helped create some new and lasting friendships amongst people who may not otherwise have met, provided performance opportunities to local musicians and songwriters and above all, it gave a voice to marginalised and vulnerable people and highlighted the issues they face.