PRESS RELEASE: ‘Listen Up’ – Poetry event to mark World Mental Health Day at Turner Contemporary

Venue: Turner Contemporary – Margate
Date: Sunday 15th October
Time of event: 1.30pm to 4.30pm

As part of a programme of activities marking World Mental Health Day 2017 this October, a poetry event is to be held at Margate’s Turner Contemporary on Sunday 15th October. Hosted by SpeakUp CIC, an independent mental health support group serving East Kent, ‘Listen Up’ will aim to provide greater awareness of mental health through the power of poetry and performance.

The event will be formally opened by the Mayor of Margate, Cllr Rosamund Dixon, and will feature established Kent-based poets, alongside poetry readings from SpeakUp CIC members who have found poetry a vitally important way of expressing themselves and nurturing their creativity, as well as being hugely beneficial for their overall mental well-being.

SpeakUp CIC Director, Maggie Gallant, said: “SpeakUp CIC are an independent mental health support organisation dedicated to supporting and empowering people to have their voices heard. This event will help to raise awareness about the impact of mental health by providing the opportunity for people to share their experiences and feelings through poetry, art and music. Poetry, in particular, is a wonderful therapeutic tool and this event will provide a showcase so that others can gain a greater understanding and appreciation of mental health.”

Local poet, Connor Sansby, who will be actively supporting and participating in the event, added: “Thanet has a wonderfully active poetry scene, that has a long history of providing platforms for marginalised voices. As part of Neanderthal Beard, a poetry development company, we believe that every voice added to the conversation enriches our community. Everyone has a valid opportunity to express themselves and reach out, to connect with one another. We’re thrilled to be working with SpeakUp CIC to continue this mission and raise awareness for World Mental Health Awareness Day.”

World Mental Health Day 2017 takes place on Tuesday 10th October this year. The event at the Turner Contemporary will be the culmination of a week-long programme of activities by SpeakUp CIC across its local groups in Margate, Ashford and Dover – including writing workshops, performance workshops and other events.

Media enquiries to: Darren Johnson 07799 731 682
darrenjohnson@crowfliescommunications.com
Website: http://www.speakupcic.co.uk/