Wayside Stories

Fran's Writing Classes

My Wayside days began with the idea of starting a writing class.

I came to the first class with piles of notes and ideas on different writing exercises I’d run. Thinking about the amazing debates we’d have. I needed that first day to realise that it would never go as I planned. I wasn’t at uni any more.

Each Wednesday I sit in the courtyard, or in the Nomad Café, and pull out everyone’s notebooks and pens. Sometimes I will have a group, other times no one will be around, so I just sit and write. Usually people will join me. We might do an exercise. Or perhaps just edit someone’s work.

I have had people write poems, songs, articles and stories. One man is writing a story for his daughter, which we work on together. Being published in On The Verge is an inspiration for many. Everyone loves seeing his or her work published.

I have a few regular budding writer, some who come occasionally and others who just observe. It’s totally relaxed and that’s how we like it. The writing class is a chance for people to express themselves, which isn’t easy for everyone. It can be a catharsis; a chance to write down what’s inside.

The classes are once a week for two hours. I love coming in to Wayside, soaking up the atmosphere, but I also love writing. What better way to volunteer then doing something you love. It is two of the best hours of my week and every Wednesday for the last 18 months has been great.

Fran, Volunteer

More Wayside Stories...