Portadown is an area of high population density, unemployment and sectarian troubles. Many group members have had a very basic education. Working with creative writing tutors has improved their literacy skills and confidence. The group will put together an anthology of their creative writing over the past year - providing a further boost to their self-esteem.

Project:		Personal Development Programme (Central & Cecil Housing Trust)
Category:		Basic skills

The Programme provides advice and practical assistance to homeless women to help them find long-term solutions to problems and develop skills for independent living. A qualified tutor will provide twice-weekly literacy classes at two hostels. Tailored lessons will cover basic writing skills, CV writing and short story writing.

Project:		Spirit of the Islands
Category:		Creative writing

This project aims to develop creative writing skills in the Outer Hebrides and build bridges between communities in isolated areas. Workshops will encourage writing that celebrates the unique cultural, social and natural environment and gives individuals a voice in the wider community.

Project:		Write-on Dads
Category:		Disadvantaged

Prisoners from HMP Exeter involved in this project will be able to maintain contact with their children by recording stories onto audio tape or CD. Three 10-week courses will run over a year, focusing on both writing skills and an understanding of appropriate children's books for different ages. Parents will read stories aloud to create audio books for their children.

Project:		Dropping a Line
Category:		Disabilities

Dropping a Line will target vulnerable people over 55 to rekindle and share their existing skills in reading and writing. They will be encouraged to pick up a pen and write to others - either housebound adults or schoolchildren. Volunteers will be identified through Age Concern Stockport and given one-to-one literacy support and aids to help them see or hold a pen where required.
The National Literacy Trust have given their support to the Fund and further details of each of the projects for 2001 and 2003 can be found on their website www.literacytrust.org.uk.