My CWA launches poetry competition [2020 competition now closed]

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Cheshire domestic abuse charity, My CWA, is now taking entries to its 2020 poetry competition, which will run until 23rd October.

The charity, which helps families affected by domestic abuse throughout Cheshire East, promotes poetry writing as part of its recovery programme for domestic abuse survivors and runs poetry workshops for people who aren’t sure where to start.

This year’s theme is: Reach In | Reach Out.

My CWA deputy chief executive, Beverley Wrighton explains more: “We want people to be creative with their interpretation of the theme. Reach in could be about finding inner strength, supporting friends or caring about others. Reach out might be about moving forward, growth, letting go or seeking support,” she says.

“We wanted to give people who’ve put their feelings into words a platform to share some of their deepest emotions. We wanted to celebrate the creativity of our survivors. And we wanted to inspire others to have a go at writing their own poetry as part of their recovery journey. So here we are launching our 2020 poetry competition,” Beverley continues.

“Poetry has been a real lifeline for some of the domestic abuse survivors we’ve worked with throughout the pandemic. It has an almost miraculous ability to help people heal. It boosts confidence and self-esteem and it can help survivors move towards a brighter future. Seriously – never underestimate the power of poetry!” Beverley adds.

If you’ve never written poetry before – or if you’re feeling a bit rusty and would like some top tips – My CWA is running virtual poetry workshops 10:00–12:00 on:

  • Friday 2nd October

  • Friday 9th October

  • Friday 16th October

To book your place, just email info@mycwa.org.uk stating your preferred date.

My CWA will collate and publish a selection of entries in a book that it will sell to complement a range of fundraising initiatives (writers whose poems are selected will win a free copy of the book).

The top three poets will also receive a mindful gift set and the chance to record their poems – on video or audio – so their stories can be shared far and wide.

To enter the competition, submit your poems by Friday 23rd October. My CWA will publish your name with your poem if you’d like them to – or anonymously if you’d prefer that. Please give your preference when you submit your poem.

 
Saskia