Carers Songwriting Workshop

FAQs

• Do I need any musical experience or singing ability?

  No - this workshop is designed for carers with no musical background. You don't need to be able to sing, play an instrument or write songs already. The focus is on your story and experience, not musical skill.

• What actually happens during the workshop?

  You'll take part in guided conversation and storytelling activities, then work collaboratively with the group and facilitators Anthony and Belinda to write lyrics and create music together. Singer/songwriter Anthony Snape will help shape the song in real time.

• Will I have to perform or sing in front of others?

  No - there are no expectations for attendees to perform in any way.

• What happens to the song afterwards? Will it be shared publicly?

  You'll receive a personal copy of the song for your own use. The song will only be shared publicly if the whole group agrees to do so.

• What does 'trauma-informed' mean in this context, and what if I get emotional?

  The workshop is facilitated with care and sensitivity to carers' experiences and led by facilitators trained to support people through potentially difficult conversations. You're never required to share more than you're comfortable with, and there's no pressure to disclose anything specific.

• Who counts as a 'carer' for this workshop?

  A carer is a person who gives unpaid care and support to a family member or friend. This includes people with a disability, mental illness, chronic or terminal medical condition, alcohol or drug problem, or older people who are frail.

  A carer may be a:

  • spouse,

  • parent,

  • child,

  • sibling, or

  • friend, who step into a caring role.

  Carers may provide:

  • Personal Care: Assisting with bathing, dressing, eating, and using the toilet.

  • Health Management: Administering medication, organising clinical appointments, and monitoring symptoms.

  • Daily Household Tasks: Cooking, cleaning, shopping, and managing finances.

  • Transport and Social Support: Driving to appointments, running errands, and offering emotional support.

• How many people will be in the group?

  The workshop supports up to 15 participants only, in a small-group setting designed to feel safe and welcoming.

• Is there a cost to attend?

  No

• Is food provided?

  Yes, the session includes a shared catered lunch. You will be asked on ticket checkout if you have food preferences or allergies

• Who are Anthony Snape and Belinda Brooks, and what are their roles?

  Anthony Snape
  Anthony Snape is an independent music artist and writer. He is well known as an acoustic artist, having opened a number of times for Tommy Emmanuel throughout the US, UK and Europe and as a writer, with his songs used in film and TV and recorded by artists all over the world. Anthony will draw on his extensive songwriting experience to work with participants, helping craft their stories into song.

  Belinda Brooks
  Belinda Brooks is a trauma-informed practitioner who brings a multidisciplinary background across visual art, music, theatre and education, along with senior leadership experience in the not-for-profit sector, including with Soldier On. Belinda is also a qualified End of Life Doula, and brings this same grounded, compassionate approach to holding space for carers throughout the workshop.

• Can I bring the person I care for?

  No - this workshop is intentionally time just for you. So much of caring involves putting someone else's needs first, and this is a space designed to give you room to be seen, heard and supported as yourself, without also holding the responsibility of care during that time.

  We recognise this may raise a practical question for some carers; we understand this isn't always simple, and we want to acknowledge that taking this time for yourself is valid and important, even when arranging it takes effort.

• Is the venue accessible?