A series of powerful spoken word workshops have engaged over 65 young people across five Lancashire schools as part of the LVRN’s commitment to violence prevention. The workshops have used creative expression as a tool for discussion, reflection, and violence reduction.
Delivered by spoken word artist, Nathan Parker, between March and June this year, the sessions took place at The Rose School, McKee College, Carr Hill High School, Our Lady’s Catholic College, and Fulwood Academy.
Nathan’s workshops were specifically designed to engage students – particularly those who might not usually connect with poetry – through relatable, thought-provoking spoken word. Focused on exploring issues around violence, the sessions encouraged young people to express their thoughts, build emotional resilience, and open up conversations about their experiences and choices.
Chief Inspector Gemma Barr, Operational Lead of the Violence Reduction Network, said: “We are proud to support initiatives like Nathan’s workshops, which use creativity to reach young people in a truly meaningful way. Giving students a voice to express their feelings and experiences not only helps to prevent violence but empowers them to make positive changes in their lives and communities.”
Nathan Parker added: “It’s been amazing to work with the young people across all the schools. They have spoken confidently about their experiences and emotions, and I think spoken word and poetry has been the perfect vehicle to enable that. They’ve given powerful insight into what makes them feel unsafe and exposed violence, with the solutions often very simple and plausible.”
