We’re inviting people in recovery from substance use to co-create a new walking trail at Northern Roots in Oldham. We’ll be meeting for song and poetry workshops across six weeks, to share our experiences of recovery and create together.
About the Project
Working with poet Phillip Davenport, If You Could Speak to the World is a nature as nurture arts project that brings together walking, poetry and song to improve creative health and Oldham’s cultural life.
With funding from Transport for Greater Manchester’s Wheels and Walks programme, we’re working in partnership with Northern Roots and Turning Point to develop a new permanent audio trail at the UK’s largest urban farm and eco-park.
Over a series of workshops you will walk, write andrecord poetry and song together, inspired by nature and lived experience. Launching at Recoverist Month (our September long arts programme), the walking trail guide and soundtrack will be accessible to download on your smart phone at Northern Roots.
The Ask
Led and supported by lead artist Phil, you’ll work as part of a small group and:
- Take part in six 2-hour workshops at Northern Roots
- Walk, write, and record poetry and songs inspired by nature
- Work with professional artists in a supportive, welcoming environment
- Help create a permanent audio trail that will be enjoyed by the wider community
Offer and support
- Free creative skills sessions
- No experience needed
- A supportive space; You’ll be part of a small group, with a buddy system.
- Travel expenses supported with a Bee Network Day-ticket
Who this is for
Open to people in recovery, significant others, family and friends to:
- Try something new in a safe and supportive, creative environment
- Spend time in nature to improve wellbeing
- Learn new skills and connect with like-minded others
- Greater Manchester residents – anyone with an interest in walking, wellbeing, or supporting the recovery community
Your experience matters. Use to inspire change.
Key Details
- Location – Northern Roots, Oldham (workshops and walks)
- Timeline, Workshops run from May – July 2026. Volunteer training runs alongside.
- Travel, Bee Network Day-tickets provided for participants
- Cost, Free to take part
- Accessibility, the route is step-free with rest points. We can adapt activities to suit you.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Phil Davenport is a poet, artist and curator with over 20 years’ experience leading collaborative community projects. Phil has worked extensively with the homeless community in Manchester and Cumbria, creating exhibitions shown at the Houses of Parliament, Southbank Centre, National Maritime Museum and Manchester Cathedral. He co-founded Zwiebelfish CIC in 2021, co-directing Refuge from the Ravens, and continues to explore the poetics of social injustice through projects like The Last Wolf in England. Phil is lead editor of Synapse International, an international visual poetry magazine.
