'Elevate the Positive' - the aim is to develop as writers through the exploration of our strengths. Second Thursday of the month.

We have now moved to Gavin's bookshop in Broadstairs.

This group aims to support writers to write. The idea is you leave the group feeling inflated not deflated. It's about developing your voice - not someone else's voice. Hearing what others enjoy about your writing. This article explores some of the principles behind this group:

https://mslexia.co.uk/magazine/blog/a-spoonful-of-sugar (https://mslexia.co.uk/magazine/blog/a-spoonful-of-sugar)

Ground RulesAttempt Positive Criticism. This is a skill. Feedback should be positive but not fake. What speaks to you in the writing? How does it make you feel? How do you understand the plot or structure? What did you notice about the language? `````Etc

We are all equals - it doesn’t matter if you are a published author or a complete beginner, all thoughts and views are heard.

Hate speech of any kind will not be tolerated and will result in you being excluded from the group. This includes but is not limited to, racism, disablism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia and religious persecution.

No pressure to speak or read. Turn up and observe – you don’t need to read out or give feedback.

This place attempts to be “safe”.This group isn’t suitable for exploring sexually explicit writing or graphic violence. You don't know the backgrounds of everyone in the room. If you're going to read something that might be problematic or emotionally difficult, talk about it first - and if you're unsure, ask. If listening, you can leave the room at any time. This means it's a safe space to discuss topics/writing that might be difficult or problematic, while also not making people feel pressured to listen to things they find uncomfortable.

Banned question. ‘Is this based on your own life?’ - it doesn't add anything and can make discussion awkward. Please don't ask this or any other personal questions. This is not a therapy group - please keep discussion focused on the writing presented.

If you have a cold or other infection please skip this session - there are members of the group who have compromised immune systems.

ACCESS

The group is in the basement. There is a steep stairs down to the basement - so it is not suitable for wheelchair users. Once in the basement the toilet can be accessed on the same level (one step).

Please contact the organiser to make any access requests - which will be considered whenever possible.

Cover photo by Matheus Farias (https://unsplash.com/@karmatheux?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText) on Unsplash (https://unsplash.com/photos/brown-paper-on-book-page-yPg3_gpGrqI?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText)

Description supplied by the event organiser.