High Peak Writers

High Peak Writers was formed in 2001 in Buxton, Derbyshire. Though not exclusively, it is intended to help those suffering from mental distress by expressing themselves therapeutically through creative writing in a safe and supportive environment. We obtain most of our funding each year from Derbyshire Primary Care Trust.  In 2003 High Peak Writers obtained funding with an Awards for All grant to write a radio play on a mental health theme, drawing on experiences of those in the group. We wrote the play collaboratively with the help of Clare Thompson, Head of Drama at Buxton Community School, GCSE pupils and Alan Ogden, a local playwright. We have been successful in applying for funding from Derbyshire Community Foundation in 2009 to perform the play in the 2010 Buxton Fringe Festival and we have also received funding through the Open Up Initiatives Scheme to re-record the play professionally in Derbyshire and put the recording on our website, www.high-peak-writers.btik.com. Please visit the site if you require further information about the group, the play and the time-to-change Campaign.