Mental health recovery through Our Histories project

Our Histories participants working on their personal stories and poems

Heritage Grants

Date awarded
Location
Glasgow, Scotland
Local Authority
Glasgow City
Applicant
Glasgow Association for Mental Health
Award Given
£10000
Our Histories promoted mental health recovery by offering participants the opportunity to research their personal histories through storytelling, research, and visits to heritage sites.

The 15 participants worked with a storyteller. They undertook personal research and reading at the Mitchell Library in Glasgow. They enjoyed guided tours of the local area led by a local historian and participated in a number of community workshops.

The research and collaboration activities inspired participants to produce Schemes, Dreams and Memories, a collection of personal stories and poems.  One member contributed his observations on Glasgow and Football and the artwork was featured throughout the book.

The launch event, attended by Scots Makar Liz Lochead, was not only a celebration of all the work and personal achievements by each individual, but was also a validation of their personal history and represented a crucial part of their mental health recovery journey.

One participant explained: “Coming here has got me back to the land of the living. Prior to this I only left the house for necessities and did not mix with people - no motivation to be involved and talking.

"When I go here I am motivated to work on my project and I really look forward to being involved in Our Histories.”

Will you spare a few minutes to share your thoughts and experiences on using our website?

Take part in the survey