Verbal Arts Centre

First established in 1992, Verbal based in Northern Ireland, is the only artistic/cultural organisation of its kind on the island of Ireland, working through storytelling and the language arts to support positive mental health, resilience and cross-community dialogue in areas of high-level sectarianism, community conflict, deprivation and marginalisation. Our vision is a world where every story matters.  A world where everyone, regardless of ability, background, or circumstances, should have access to the resources and opportunities to tell their story. Our mission is; Using our unique multi-disciplinary approach to the art of storytelling Verbal works in partnership to enhance wellbeing among individuals and communities.

We do this by devising and developing high-quality and inclusive, evidence-based creative storytelling programmes that; promote positive mental health and emotional wellbeing across all ages, challenge the assumptions and prejudices of everyday life that exist and cause conflict between different and diverse communities, create a safe and nurturing environment to promote wellbeing, shine a light on the “unseen” life circumstances of the vulnerable and marginalised, encourage reconsideration of what is ‘taken for granted’ and “give voice” to new and better ways to improve quality of life. 

Working in close partnership with statutory bodies and public agencies Verbal’s annual programme is co-produced across Northern Ireland and the Border counties with and to;  (a) Looked After Children (b) Young people aged 16+ on the edge of care or at risk (c) Social housing communities experiencing community tension (d) Older people experiencing social isolation (e)Adults with mental health issues (f) Communities living at interfaces (d) adults in prison and ex-offenders.

www.theverbal.co

Dr Catherine McDonnell Chair

James Kerr Chief Executive