OUR RATIONALE
In a time of growing division, disinformation, and social isolation, we believe that listening to one another has never been more important. We're neighbours in Exeter, slowly growing into Plymouth, who are bridging division by making brave, respectful conversations the new normal in our community.
Both Exeter and Plymouth have a strong sense of community, creativity, and civic pride. People care deeply about where they live. Yet like everywhere else, the cities are feeling the strain. Public services are stretched. Decisions can feel distant. Online arguments replace face-to-face conversations. Many people feel unheard, unsure of where they belong, or reluctant to speak openly for fear of conflict or judgement.
Our belief is that by breaking down the perceived barriers that keep us apart (be they political, social, economic or other), we can build the understanding, respect and trust that our community needs to work together for a better future for everyone. We do this by promoting and creating opportunities for constructive conversation through reflection, patience and empathy, so that we can meet others in our community, and learn to rebuild trust in one another.
OUR ACTIVITIES:
We aim to meet our objectives through three main ways:
Public art projects
Collaborative art-making in public spaces helps people express ideas of solidarity, care, and cooperation. It provides a low-barrier entry point for those who may not join formal discussions but still wish to contribute to community dialogue.
Through our regular Art Factory sessions, we create good quality banners, patches, and posters that promote a culture of empathy and cooperation, and encourage people to speak to one another. We then distribute these in public spaces, at protests, and community events. Examples of our messaging include “We are your neighbours”, “Refuse to be divided” and “I could be wrong”, which illustrate the themes of community, solidarity and open mindedness we hope to spread across the city.
The Pop-Up Living Room (in development)
We create a “pop-up living room” at events in Exeter, a street-based, welcoming setup that invites passers-by into short, facilitated conversations with others. Using playful exercises, we introduce active listening and critical thinking skills, helping people experience a respectful conversation with someone they might not usually meet.
Support Groups (in development)
We are developing facilitated spaces that encourage brave, respectful, curious conversations to explore vulnerability, trust, and conversational resilience in areas such as masculinity, ADHD, and mental health.
WHY ARE WE ASKING FOR MONEY?
Room To Listen needs money to operate just like any other project. We need funding for art supplies, equipment, and people's time. The people working on this project are dedicated to bringing people together and tackling disinformation, and we believe that incredibly important work deserves to be financially supported and valued by our society.
