Rochdale’s homeless speak up

Hidden Tales

Local homeless people took to the stage at Touchstones on Tuesday and performed their personal stories through poetry, music and a series of short films.

Hosted by Mancunian poet, Mike Garry, the event featured real-life stories of strength, survival and self-discovery in life’s most challenging times.

With stories shared about mental health, addiction and recovery, the event raised awareness and understanding around a range of important social issues, which are often misconstrued and misunderstood.

The event was a culmination of Hidden Tales, a digital arts and performance project, in which Community Arts North West (CAN), has collaborated and worked with service-users and volunteers from Petrus.

CAN’S Creative producer, Sara Domville said: “The event was enjoyable and entertaining but crucially, it also made you think, and provided a reminder of the importance of speaking up and speaking out about issues which matter and affect so many of us.”