jolenesheehan community writing

Groups – what they give, what they take, and what we make of them

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Photo by Rachel Claire on Pexels.com

In our last Stories of Our Lives session, we turned our attention to the idea of groups – the ones we’re part of, the ones we’ve left, and the ones that have shaped us along the way. The conversation was a little shorter than usual because it was also our annual feedback session, but it was still a really rich and thoughtful exchange.

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jolenesheehan community writing

Stories of Our Lives – Where We Are Now & What’s Next

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August 2025 Update from Jolene

Over the past 18 months, Stories of Our Lives has continued to grow. Thanks to your ideas, participation, and support from group donations, Manchester City Council, and the Amazon Literary Partnership, we’ve held more than 24 creative and reflective sessions in Chorlton, explored facinating themes and creative methods from Green Spaces and Childhood to Memoir Writing and Poetry, welcomed wonderful guest facilitators and seen members self-publish books, begin new studies, and regularly write for our blog and the Manchester Post. Our blog now reaches readers in 180 countries, with nearly 38,000 visits, and our storytelling has travelled further through a number of outreach projects and connections with other groups.

In our July 2025 feedback, participants told us they value the variety of themes and guest speakers, the safe, supportive community, the inspiration to write and create, and the gentle challenge to step outside comfort zones. Participants also say our sessions are rooted in creativity, connection, respect, openness, kindness, and a willingness to try new things. We give space for all voices and bring lightness and laughter alongside depth.

Many also said that what makes Stories of Our Lives feel so nourishing is the way we hold space for one another. Both in terms what we share, and also in how we show care for each other’s time, energy, and presence. Whether someone is participating, facilitating, or supporting behind the scenes, we try to bring thoughtfulness, mutual respect, and a sense of balance. This shared ethos is part of what keeps the group sustainable, supportive, and joyful for everyone involved.

Looking ahead, here are the plans for the future based on other feedback:

  • Returning to Chorlton Library from mid October for its central location, visibility for newcomers, and access to technology.
  • Continuing to publish session themes in advance so people can prepare or choose the ones that interest you most.
  • Weaving in suggested topics — local history, nature and wildlife, favourite films, brief encounters, sweet treats, photography/video for storytelling, and belief systems.
  • Keeping a healthy mix of guest-led and member-led sessions to bring fresh voices and perspectives.
  • Exploring the option of occasional online gatherings so those unable to join in person can still take part.
  • Encouraging punctual starts so the session’s plan and objectives are clear to everyone from the outset. If joining late, quietly check in without disrupting the flow.
  • Supporting first-time or occasional facilitators with encouragement and constructive feedback if they’d like it.
  • Respecting each other’s creative boundaries , keeping up the habit of always asking before taking photos, and never record voices, faces, or work without consent.
  • Mixing up conversation partners from time to time so we hear fresh perspectives and connect across the group.
  • Continuing to check in for feedback so the group evolves in ways that feel relevant, inspiring, and inclusive for all.

Whether you join in person or follow from afar via our blog, thank you for helping make Stories of Our Lives what it is; a living, evolving space for creativity, shared stories, and connection. Here’s to the next chapter!