Welcome to the Lapidus website

We believe that words used creatively can be a powerful tool for health and personal and community development – through the writing,reading and performing of poetry, prose, fiction, drama and story.

Founded in 1996, and until April 2008 funded by the Arts Council, Lapidus exists to establish resources for the exchange of information and ideas, to promote appropriate training and ethical research in the field, and to provide practical support for practitioners.

Who are we?

Members of Lapidus come from all walks of life but we have one thing in common - an interest in healing and personal development through writing and reading. That means anyone can join and our members include non-professionals, writers and poets, medical and healthcare professionals, therapists, social workers, librarians, academics, teachers, service users, survivors and service providers who may work in a variety of therapeutic environments.

We are dedicated to developing the potential and actual benefits of creative words all in our own ways through creative writing workshops, storytelling, poetry sessions or in hospitals, health centres, mental health organisations or community settings. Wherever it happens we all wish to grow and develop personally and creatively.

What benefits will I receive as a member of Lapidus?

• A reduced fee at the Networking Days
we are planning around the country.
• 4 issues of our members online magazine the The Lapidus Journal which features current projects and debates, provides ideas and resources for practitioners, publishes poetry,  reviews, interviews and up-to-date information
• An opportunity to network with other members via the members’ directory
• An invitation to join a Regional group

How do I/We join? Just go to the Membership page.

Lapidus also has strong links with other organisations involved in related areas. It is a founding member of literaturetraining, a group of eight leading UK literature organisations working in partnership to support professional development in the literature sector, as part of the CreativePeople network.

Literaturetraining provides information and advice on professional development for writers and others involved in creating or supporting new writing and literature.