Appeal for stories at domestic abuse charity event

A domestic abuse charity is inviting people to share their own stories at the Wolverhampton Literature Festival.

The ARTiculating Her Story open mic event is a survivor-led project that forms part of a charity's commitment to creating spaces where voices could be shared and heard, organisers said.

Pamilerin Beckley, from the charity involved, The Haven, said it was created to "honour lived experience and give people permission to speak in their own words".

The event takes place at Wolverhampton Art Gallery from 12:00 GMT on 5 February, with people interested in contributing urged to contact The Haven in advance.

The charity, set up in 1973, said content shared during the event was not limited to experiences of abuse and contributors might also explore a range of themes, including recovery, loss, joy and hope.

Work could also be shared in forms such as poetry, spoken word, song or spoken reflection, a spokesperson for The Haven added.

Poetry written by women supported through the organisation would also be shared as part of the project.

"Listening is positioned as equally important as speaking, with an emphasis on respect, care and collective presence," Beckley added.

"The event will prioritise voice over performance, creating space for expression without requiring people to conform or perform."

The Wolverhampton Literature Festival returns to the city from 6-8 February, with literature, music, poetry and dance all featured on the programme.

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