Our drinking stories, our way: Crafting stories of alcohol consumption in Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Communities
22nd October 2025 10:00-15:00, with participatory workshop at 11:00-13:00 at Manchester Poetry Library, Manchester Metropolitan University, M15 6BG.
What’s on offer?
Between 11:00-13:00 there will be a participatory workshop where attendees can have a go at using creative materials, including polymer clay, to craft an artefact that represents their relationship with alcohol. Refreshments will be provided at this time. Attendees are welcome any point between 10:00-16:00 to engage with a curation of poetry materials surrounding GRT communities, and to engage with an exhibition of crafts made by Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities, using polymer clay, to showcase their drinking stories. The exhibition will also include an accessible insight into research findings, e.g. co-constructed vignettes with members of GRT communities will be shared, and there will include opportunities for informal discussion, creating a welcoming and interactive environment.
What’s it about?
Public narratives about alcohol use in Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities are often shaped by media stereotypes, which can misrepresent or overlook the complex social and cultural contexts in which drinking occurs. Through this event, I aim to shift this narrative by showcasing and exhibiting crafts made using polymer clay that were created by the youth, mid and older-generation in Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities, when I conducted my BA / Leverhulme Trust funded research (focus on youth drinking), and from my research funded by the Institute of Alcohol Studies (generational drinking stories in these communities). This engagement can: challenge stigma and stereotypes by highlighting the diversity of experiences and perspectives within Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities; empower individuals and communities by validating personal stories and encouraging self-representation; support wellbeing by opening up dialogues around health, relationships, identity, and resilience in ways that are culturally sensitive and meaningful.
Open to
The general public
Of particular interest to
Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Communities
Event booking information
Please book using the Eventbrite link below. Please contact Samantha.wilkinson@mmu.ac.uk with any questions.
More information on the venue
Manchester Poetry Library, Manchester Metropolitan University, Grosvenor East, Cavendish Street, Manchester, M15 6BG
Further information on how to find the library and accessibility information are included below:
Visit the Poetry Library | Manchester Metropolitan University
