Miners' Strike Poetry Workshop

Using a selection of poems from the 1984-85 miners' strike, poet and activist Matt Abbott will help you craft responses and reflections. Some things just can't find their way into everyday conversation. And as we hurtle through the 21st century, the impact of those dark days in the mid-'80s is still vivid.

Whether you're a seasoned poet or an absolute beginner, Matt will guide you with various techniques and prompts to shape your words on the page. Poetry says what many of us struggle to say elsewhere. So, let's use it to say what needs saying!

Meet the Facilitator

Matt Abbott is a poet, educator, and activist from Wakefield. After success with indie band Skint & Demoralised in the late '00s, he wrote and performed the spoken word stage show 'Two Little Ducks'. This received 5* reviews at the Edinburgh Fringe and on a UK theatre tour, and the show's poems were published by Verve in 2018.

Matt's debut kids' collection 'A Hurricane in My Head' was published by Bloomsbury in 2019. He was longlisted for the National Poetry Competition 2023 and recently had work translated into Arabic. His coal-mining heritage has informed his activism throughout his career.

Our events are free to attend. The amount paid today will be refunded to those who attend on the night, minus eventbrite fees.

Note for Attendees

If you have any access requirements then please let us know in advance of the event so we can make your visit as comfortable as we can.

At the WCML, we are committed to keeping attendees at our events safe. If you are displaying symptoms of Covid-19, please stay at home.

Community Policy

The history of the groups, campaigns and individuals who make up our collection at the Working Class Movement Library has a wide range of positions and the Library is committed to ensuring that this range is available for people to explore for themselves. Although respectful debate is encouraged, we will not tolerate sexism, homophobia, racism, transphobia, nor oppressive language or behaviour based on any structural inequality, including disability, socio-economic status, sexuality, age, education, religious affiliation, or gender expression. All who use our space, both the physical Library and its virtual spaces, share responsibility for maintaining it as a safe and welcoming one.

If you have any questions prior to your visit, then please contact us on – events@wcml.org.uk