Dr Kershaw's host creative project

A tireless charity which aims to unite people with life-limiting or serious illnesses is hosting its next creative project.

Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, in Royton, is launching free art sessions as part of The Nightbird Project, which are free fortnightly sessions to bring people together who might be experiencing loneliness through serious illnesses. 

Ahead of the official launch on Saturday, March 8, an open day is being held at the Wellbeing Centre at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice on Saturday, February 15, from 10.30am to 1.30pm. 

The initiative is designed to help adults share their stories and capture new memories as part of a supportive group. 

Each of the Saturday workshops are supported by Jenny Gaskell, a community artist whose work explores connection and grief. 

Previous sessions have explored poetry, natural materials, painting, origami and even relaxing spa treatments. 

Participants have described the project as “calming and relaxing, friendly, colourful and bright”.  

One person added: “I leave every session feeling better than when I came in.” 

Those who attend have had the chance to ask any questions, meet the wellbeing team, and get a feel for the project. 

Lisa Hoctor, senior counsellor at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, said: “There will be plenty of brews, biscuits and friendly faces to welcome you to the hospice. 

“We welcome a diversity of life experiences, ages, diagnoses and ethnicities. This celebratory, creative project invites you to share your stories and build meaningful relationships. 

“As a group, we’ll support your wellbeing and resilience while creating joyful art about your life.” 

Dr Kershaw’s Hospice provides free specialist end-of-life and palliative care – an area of healthcare that focuses on relieving and preventing the suffering of patients – for adults with life-limiting illnesses in Oldham and surrounding areas in a peaceful and homely environment. 

Spaces for The Nightbird Project are limited, so it is advised to get in touch soon to avoid disappointment.  

To find out more, email drkh.wellbeing@nhs.net or call 0161 624 2727 and ask for Lisa, mentioning The Nightbird Project.