Poetry helping assault survivors in the Northwest
A Sligo group called ‘Survivors with Biros’ is helping survivors of childhood sexual abuse recover from their experiences.
Anna Morven, the group’s founder, spoke about the benefits of poetry writing for survivors.
A survivor herself, Ms Morven said though she has a CV detailing her work as a lawyer with Amnesty International, and graduated from Oxford, her persobal biography shows damage from abuse sustained as a child.
The group was founded last April and works as a ‘ healing tool’ for survivors, according to Ms Morven, who has previously taught therepeutic writing in prisons.
Ms Morven said those taking part in the group must first make sure they are mentally prepared for the process.
“For every person it’s unique, we cope in different ways, that’s why writing can be very powerful. Writing can help to set goals and get a sense of control,” she told those gathered at IT Sligo.
All poetry is published anonymously.