The Forum Norwich

The Forum was established as a landmark building in Norwich for culture, recreation and learning, for everyone in Norwich and Norfolk. The organisation provides year round accessible opportunities for engagement and learning across arts, culture, science, technology and heritage. In addition to this, The Forum is committed to removing barriers which can prevent communities from accessing projects by taking work into communities and working in partnership with organisations to build relationships.

The Forum received a grant from the Hays Travel Foundation to fund the Norwich Book Festival which was created with the aim to improving reading and writing for enjoyment for deprived children living in Norwich. Norwich Book Festival consists of different elements such as community workshops, The Imaginarium and author school visits, all with the aim to engage children in the community.

For example, The Imaginarium allows participants to engage with inspiring and socially engaged practitioners to engage in reading, writing and creativity. With The Imaginarium, the participants are able create magazines about issues relevant to them, as well as collaborative picture books which explore communal stories and illustration. 

The Norwich Book Festival has already had a great impact on local children and young people, alongside their families and plans to further strengthen communities and partnerships as the project continues.