writing – Story Stitchers

For Families who speak English as a Second Language who have been driven to Warrington by circumstance

At our Story Makers group we aim to support families who have arrived in Warrington through diverse circumstances by offering accessible, arts-based activities that encourage expression, community connection and celebrate our cultures, with support for ESOL learners.

Children, parents and grandparents are all welcome to come together to share stories, play and learn English.

Everyone’s story matters. Everyone is welcome.

What We Do:

Tell and create stories together
Play games with words and imagination
Make art and crafts inspired by stories
Learn English in a fun, friendly way
Celebrate Multicultural Warrington

Details

Day & Time: Tuesdays 4.00-5.30, from 13th January 2026

Location: The Old School, Warrington, WA1 3AJ

Email: hello@storystitchers.co.uk to book your place or find out more

We have secured funding to run this group until June 2026. At the end of the project we may produce some kind of creative outcome like an exhibition or a book. This will be decided by the group in a process of co production.

Easy Read Guide for our Group

Who is this group for?

Families who have come to Warrington driven by circumstances
People learning English (ESOL)
Grandparents, parents and children to spend time together

What do we do?

Creative activities – arts, crafts, creative writing, storytelling and imaginative play
Learn new words and talk
Meet new people
Have fun

Do I need to be good at speaking English?

No. You can join even if you only speak a little English. We help each other. We use pictures, words, and art to communicate.

Why join the group?

To make friends
To feel part of the community
To relax
To learn English in a friendly way
To enjoy being creative with your family

What do I need to bring?

Your family. All art materials are provided

How much does it cost?

It is free. These sessions are funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.

When and where is it?

Tuesdays, 4 – 5.30pm, upstairs at The Old School, Warrington, WA1 3AJ

Fairfield Street, Warrington, England

Who is running the group?

Flick Barry is a CELTA qualified ESOL teacher and has been a community artist for 20 years. She is experienced at storytelling work with all ages, including working with ESOL students and refugee families. She is British born and throughout her life is lucky to have worked and travelled around the world. Flick is supported by friendly staff and volunteers to ensure that your experience is a positive one.

How do I find out more or sign my family up?

Please send an email to hello@storystitchers.co.uk to sign up or find out more.

Please feel free to download and share our poster with anyone who you think might be interested in coming.

StoryMakersPoster, Warrington Download

Fee: £50 per 90-minute session (+ 30 minutes setup/pack down)

Location: The Old School, Warrington

Discipline: Open to all art forms (Storytelling, visual arts, music, movement, writing, performance, etc.)

Commitment: Regular sessions over the project period (November to June)- afternoons, evening and weekends (schedule TBC)

Requirements: Public Liability Insurance, DBS Check, and two references

Deadline for applications: 5th November

Workshop Interview: 11th November, 1.30-4.30

About the Project

We are looking for an Apprentice to support a creative community space in Warrington, engaging three community groups:

Older adults, once a week
Families seeking Sanctuary, once a week
Neurodivergent (ND) primary-aged children and families, once a month

Building on the success of a pilot project with ND families, this new initiative funded by Lotteries Community Fund, will expand our Story Stitchers approach to foster confidence, creativity and connection through regular arts-based sessions.

Our listening-led, storytelling and co-creation method helps participants express themselves, share stories and build a sense of identity, belonging and wellbeing in a safe, inclusive environment. You can read more about what this looks like in practice here.

Role Description

As an Apprentice Facilitator, you will work alongside an experienced lead artist to:

Support participants during creative sessions
Help set up and pack down materials and equipment
Assist with gathering participant feedback and reflections
Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and welcoming atmosphere

This is an opportunity for an emerging artist interested in developing community facilitation skills and working with diverse groups. You will gain hands-on experience in socially engaged practice and learn how to deliver inclusive, participant-led creative sessions.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from emerging artists working in any creative discipline who:

Are passionate about community arts and creative inclusion
Are reliable, adaptable, and supportive in group settings
Have or are willing to obtain Public Liability Insurance and a DBS check
Can provide two references

We are particularly keen to hear from artists who have cultural understanding relevant to the communities we are engaging with.

Workshop Interview

Date: 11th November

Time: 1.30-4.30

Location: The Old School, Warrington

We will host a workshop interview in the afternoon. In this workshop we will share more about the project and invite you to lead a 15 minute activity relevant to your creative discipline. Applicants will need to be available for the duration of the workshop and expected to join in the session.

How to Apply

Please email your application to hello@storystitchers.co.uk by 9am, 5th November including the following:

A short statement (up to 500 words) about your practice and why you’re interested in this role
Your CV or a short summary of relevant experience
Two references

We look forward to hearing from you.

Tag: writing

Story Makers, Warrington from 13th January 2026