Socially Inclusive Online Sessions

Whether it’s because of shielding, social anxiety, sensory issues and/or other health matters, it’s reassuring to know that online events continue. Life and the world can feel isolating or unwelcoming, but there are some friendly online spaces which inclusive of people from different backgrounds, neurodivergence and access. Here are some drawing, poetry and fitness classes I have personally interacted with or heard positive things about!

Allographic

“Open mic of poetry, storytelling, and any spoken word”

Eventbrite (look for upcoming events)
Allographic on Instagram
Allographic on Facebook
Linktree

Squid says: Attended my first Allographic on a lonely Sunday evening, and created this blog post. I now feel that I’ll no longer be lonely (so long as online poetry events exist!) but moreover so long as poetry exists..! Very inclusive.

Crafty Crows

“Open and international platform for poets and spoken word artists to share their words”

Website
Crafty Crows Facebook

Squid says: Sounds interesting! Have yet to attend.

Draw with wallis eates

Hear it, See it, Show it (Zoom)

Listen to a song. Explore it to create a comic or piece/s of art with guided activities with experienced comics creator, artist and facilitator, Wallis Eates.

OPEN MINDS PROJECT

See The Open Minds Project Eventbrite page

Queer Poetry Club (BIPOC)

Online group for LGBTQIA+ people with Punjabi or South Asian Heritage

Squid says: I have attended and enjoyed the Queer Poetry Club (for BIPOC). The facilitator says they aim to create a gentle space. We listen to and/or read a poem and then do short guided exercises. I usually end up with a poem and an interesting journey. And it’s free! Highly recommend!

(Open Minds Project also have an in-person Birmingham group for LGBTQIA+ people with Punjabi or South Asian Heritage. Details can be found on their Eventbrite page).

Norwich Poetry Org

“A relaxed and informal monthly gathering at which writers of poetry/spoken word and fiction”

Website

Squid says: Sounds interesting! Have yet to attend.

Poetry LGBT

Live OR online - “Come and enjoy poetry and spoken word from new and established LGBTQ+ poets/writers/creatives.”

Eventbrite for Live, in-person events
Eventbrite for Zoom events
Poetry LGBT Facebook
Poetry LGBT Instagram

Squid says: I’ve attended Poetry LGBT online on numerous occasions during lockdown and beyond. It really helped my mental health to find a space to share my poetry and listen to other LGBTIQA+ people.

Poetry Online Events

Facebook Group
Squid says: A buzzing feed of online poetry and writing events.

Take the big bag fitness

“All-abilities small group fitness classes on Zoom each week”
Website
Squid says: I’ve been a loyal member for a few years and it’s really helped my physical and mental health. Check out my testimonial here.


Photo: Stock imagery

 
mental health, performance, poetry, physical health, storytelling, writing, art, creativityThe Mollusc Dimension