Make Share Heal: Women’s Wellbeing Workshops in Pype Hayes
Make Share Heal is a year-long programme of monthly creative and therapeutic workshops for women in Pype Hayes, Birmingham across 11 workshop sessions.
Running from August 2025 to July 2026, the project is designed to support mental wellbeing, reduce isolation, and create a safe, welcoming space for women to connect, express themselves, and heal through creativity.
Our focus is on women aged 18-49, particularly those from Ukrainian, Polish, and Central and Eastern European (CEE) migrant backgrounds, alongside local women who may be experiencing similar challenges, including poverty, trauma, or poor mental health.
Pype Hayes is a neighbourhood facing social and economic challenges, with limited access to culturally appropriate mental health support. Many women, especially those from migrant communities, face barriers such as language differences, isolation, past trauma, and lack of trust in services. These challenges can make it hard to access the help they need.
Through our own research at Centrala, alongside national studies, we know that migrant women in the UK experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, and social exclusion, particularly those who are new to the country or who have been affected by displacement or gender-based violence. Women in the community have told us that they want safe, local spaces where they can connect with others, build confidence, and take part in activities that support their wellbeing. Make Share Heal was created in direct response to this need.
Each monthly session brings women together for three hours of creativity, connection, and support.
Workshops include:
- Creative and therapeutic activities such as art, storytelling, music therapy, dance movement, and mindfulness
- Trauma-informed, culturally sensitive facilitation led by experienced practitioners
- One-to-one holistic support and signposting to services such as mental health care, housing, benefits advice, education, employment, and domestic abuse support
- Multilingual resources, making sure language is never a barrier
Our aim is to create a welcoming, non-judgemental space where women can explore their creativity, share their experiences, and take steps towards greater wellbeing and empowerment.
Venue: St Mary’s (Lighthouse Church), 1162 Tyburn Road, Pype Hayes, Birmingham, B24 0TB
Schedule: Monthly sessions, 10:00AM-12:00pm, from September 2025 to July 2026
By the end of the project, we hope to see:
- Better mental health and emotional resilience among participants
- Reduced loneliness and isolation
- Improved access to local services and support networks
- Stronger confidence and cultural expression, helping women feel more connected to their identities and communities
- Lasting peer support, with women continuing to meet and support one another beyond the project
Workshop Schedule
1. Crafting Calm 26 September 2025
A gentle introduction to the project through calming craft-making. Participants will create their own story using collage to reflect on their experiences as migrant women in the UK. The session will include simple creative techniques such as paper crafts and textiles to encourage mindfulness, relaxation, and connection. One-to-one support will also be available.
2. Story Circles 17 October 2025
An opportunity for women to share personal stories and find strength in lived experiences. Through guided storytelling and reflective conversation, participants will reclaim their voice, build confidence, and connect with others who understand their journeys.
3. Sound and Stillness 28 November 2025
A sensory workshop combining sound therapy and mindfulness. Gentle instruments such as singing bowls will be used alongside simple breathing exercises to reduce stress and support emotional balance.
4. Light in Winter 13th and 20th December 2025
A cosy, festive session focused on warmth, hope, and renewal. Participants will create winter-themed crafts such as lanterns and ornaments while exploring themes of light and cultural traditions. Tea and treats will be provided.
5. Move to Heal 24 January 2026
An uplifting introduction to dance movement therapy. No dance experience is needed. Participants will be guided through gentle movement and stretching to reconnect with their bodies and express themselves creatively.
7. Craft Your Future 28 February 2026
Craft your personal Vision Board—a powerful way to focus on your goals for the next 6 months and the year ahead. Together, we’ll explore practical steps for managing stress, coping with family responsibilities, and planning for positive changes like finding a new job or improving your work-life balance.
8. International Women’s Day 7 March 2026
Together, we will create beautiful flower arrangements and handmade jewellery pieces—symbols of strength, growth, and individuality. Alongside creative activities, we will explore meaningful self-care practices and supportive circle conversations designed to strengthen emotional wellbeing and connection.
8. Threads of Identity 25 April 2026
Using fabric, thread, and texture, participants will explore personal journeys and cultural identity through embroidery and fabric collage. This hands-on creative session encourages reflection and self-expression.
9. Calm in Clay 16 May 2026
A grounding and relaxing workshop using clay. Working with clay supports stress relief, creativity, and focus. Participants will create small symbolic objects to keep or gift.
10. Voices Together 27 June 2026
A creative session exploring connection through song, rhythm, and spoken word. Participants will have the chance to share songs from their culture, try simple vocal techniques, and explore affirmations or poetry in a supportive space.
11. Joyful Journeys 11 July 2026
The final workshop will bring together art, reflection, and dance in a joyful closing circle. Participants will celebrate their growth and share what they have gained throughout the project.
Make Share Heal is made possible thanks to ENNS and Birmingham City Council.