Letters From the Shed

What Is it?

‘Letters from the Shed’ is a pen pal project created by Hackney Shed involving young people from Hackney writing to older people from Westminster who are living with dementia.

We are partnering with the Westminster Dementia Advisor and Westminster City Council. As the project progresses we may suggest a number of creative challenges for the pen pals.

Why write a letter?

At this time of social distancing we want to reduce a sense of isolation, increase a sense of community and encourage an intergenerational creative exchange.

Plus there's nothing quite like receiving a letter from a friend in the post!

How to get involVed

If you’d like to find out more or get involved email barry@hackneyshed.org.uk

Please note: We monitor and act as the go-between for all correspondence.

Hackney Shed and Westminster City Council will cover all postage costs. Thanks to Flourishing Lives for introducing us to Westminster City Council.

What People Say About Hackney Shed

Testimonials

It's non competitive and encourages cooperation, collaboration and celebration of people's differing strengths.

Hackney Shed doesn't just support children and young people the benefits spill over to parents and carers too, especially around well being, knowing the 'shed' members are being well catered for.

“Hackney Shed provides a unique service to communities across Hackney which is financially accessible (unlike others). It's format is vital in respect of social cohesion and providing space for the development of young people in a way which is non judgemental and inclusive”

A really fun drama space where you could feel safe and comfortable expressing ideas. I've met so many cool people I wouldn't have without this.

Hackney Shed is a marvellous, shining example of genuine, meaningful inclusion.

“It is a rare and valuable opportunity to meet and make friends, socialise, develop his independence and feel rightly proud of himself”

“Hackney Shed is great and continues to wow - great for kids and parents.”

“Great energy. Inclusive for all. Creative teaching which allows children/young people opportunities to gain confidence”

"The best thing is that we have a proper theatre, with lights and costumes and musicians and everything, so when we do a show it feels like a real show, not just kids.”

"Hackney Shed enriches my child's life on so many levels. She is not only learning theatre skills, but so much more. She is learning about community and co-operation, and is gaining in confidence and self-worth."

"As a parent with a child with special needs I value the inclusivity over and above everything. This is from the point of view both of how good it is for him to feel included and valued but also from the point of view of my other two children who are able to see him and others with special needs being on an equal footing."

"We have been Hackney residents for nearly 20 years and have been very proud to find such an excellent opportunity for all children right on our doorstep."