Rochdale residents are being invited to explore their sense of identity and belonging through a unique poetry workshop led by the borough's first poet laureate.
Unlocking Creativity in Rochdale
The latest in a series of poetry workshops with Sammy Weaver, Rochdale's inaugural poet laureate, will be held at Rochdale Central Library. The session invites participants to consider fundamental questions about their origins, destinations, and what makes them feel connected to their community.
In a warm and welcoming environment, Weaver will guide attendees through a series of inspiring exercises designed to unlock personal understanding of memory, place, and human connection. The workshop promises a journey between the real and imagined, resulting in new poems centred on empowerment, reflection, and resilience.
Opportunity for Local Writers
The workshop is open to all experience levels, including complete beginners. This inclusive approach ensures everyone from seasoned wordsmiths to curious newcomers can participate. Furthermore, those who attend will have the valuable chance to submit their created poems for consideration in a special anthology celebrating Rochdale's Year of Culture.
This creative initiative is made possible through Lottery Project grants from Arts Council England. The workshop is delivered in partnership by Rochdale Borough Libraries and the Rochdale Development Agency. This project forms a key part of Rochdale's programme as the Greater Manchester Town of Culture for 2025-26.
Changing Landscapes Anthology Launch
In related literary news, the community will soon celebrate the launch of another local poetry collection. The 'Changing Landscapes' anthology will be launched at Hare Hill House on Friday, November 28, 2025, from 10am to 12 noon.
This project was led by creative facilitator Elizabeth White and poet Seamus Kelly. The anthology features work from local writers of varying experience, from established poets to those just beginning their creative journeys. The collection showcases a range of styles, including concrete poems, where the visual shape enhances the subject, and a dialect poem accompanied by an illustration.
The launch event will see poets reading their work from the anthology, with copies available for the public. The project organisers have expressed their gratitude to the Crook Hill Community Fund for their sponsorship and to the Friends of Hare Hill House for hosting the event. The launch will be attended by the Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Janet Emsley.
