December Art Exhibition

The opportunity to write my book has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Thanks to the invaluable support provided by Sunderland Literacy Aid, I have gained extensive knowledge about the entire process of book creation, from conceptualisation to writing and illustration. Every step of the way, the team has been by my side, offering assistance, brainstorming ideas, addressing my questions, and providing feedback on my work in progress. Despite working independently, I have always felt connected to a supportive team. The entire journey with Sunderland Literacy Aid has played a pivotal role in turning my dream of becoming a writer and artist into a reality.

Lesley Armour, author and illustrator

Having been diagnosed late in life (53) with ADHD and Autism I was faced with a whole new world of challenges and an understanding of the barriers I realised, I had faced throughout my life. I have written and illustrated from a very young age but always struggled to bring any ideas to a satisfactory conclusion. Now with the support and advice of Sunderland Literacy Aid I have completed my first book, written and illustrated in full and now in print. Sunderland Literacy Aid have provided support, physical space and the opportunity to further my practice and provided positive motivation to ensure my book has stayed on course whilst still allowing me to work to my own schedule. I genuinely would not have achieved this significant goal without their consistent and holistic assistance. Nothing has been too much trouble, they know when to step back and when to give extra help where needed. Thanks to Sunderland Literacy Aid I am now in the process of planning my next books, something which a year ago would have been unthinkable.

Fiona Duncan, author, illustrator, musician, and community advocate