Kirklees Together

Kirklees Libraries and partners are combining creative writing and sewing skills to combat loneliness and isolation in local communities.

Creative Connections

Meet and Mend and Give a Few Words are working with Heckmondwike Library on a Creative Connections project. These will use books, poems, stories and words to tackle loneliness in socially isolated communities. The project provides a safe and supportive environment where people can come together to be creative and connect with others.

Give a Few Words

Heckmondwike Library serves as the perfect muse, with books, poems, stories, magazines, and online resources to provide the perfect ‘sew-lution’ for anyone in need of inspiration. Completed items will be donated to residents of local care homes as part of Give a Few Words’ Christmas campaign.

Who can attend?

Residents of all ages and abilities are encouraged to visit the library and work with Meet and Mend founder Joanne Cook, who is experienced in sewing and creative fabric techniques. The sessions will run every Saturday from 28 October to 16 December 12.30 -2.30pm.

Councillor Paul Davies, Cabinet Member for Corporate said:

“This collaborative project proves that Kirklees Libraries are “sew” much more than books. The partnership between our libraries, Meet and Mend and Give A Few Words to boost social connections is seamless, delivering creative activities that do more than ignite the imagination. They are bringing communities together to combat serious issues like social isolation and improve mental health and wellbeing.”

Joanne Cook, Founder of Meet and Mend said:

“Give a Few Words is a Community Interest Company that works to promote the therapeutic benefits of creative writing whilst also reducing loneliness within our local communities.

“I am confident that the Creative Connections Project will have a positive impact on the North Kirklees community and encourage everyone to get involved, regardless of their skill level or experience.”

Cost of Living Quilt

Meet and Mend are the team behind the Cost-of-Living Quilt Blanket, a community project which invited volunteers to make quilts, blankets and draft excluders which were giving to residents affected by the cost-of-living crisis and in need of extra warmth.

Meet and Mend and Give A Few Words are both social enterprises established to help reduce loneliness and isolation in older people.