The Cocoa Dream Every Child’s an Author programme
From "THINC Fund Large Projects (£25,000-£50,000)"
Go to the project
Total amount of funding requested (£GBP):
£50,000
What will your project deliver? (January 2026 - 31st December 2026)
The Every Child’s An Author: Brixton Library Afterschool Programme is a twice-weekly, screen-free creative writing and wellbeing programme for children aged 5–16 and their parents/carers. It runs every Tuesday and Thursday from 5pm to 7pm during term time at Brixton Library, part of Lambeth Council.
Each session includes:
- Children's Programme (5pm–7pm):
- A check-in with a youth counsellor to talk about their day
- Fun, creative writing and storytelling activities led by trained facilitators
- Ongoing development of short stories which are professionally published in a printed book and displayed in Brixton library.
- Parents/Carers Programme (6pm–7pm):
- Free drop-in therapeutic group session with a qualified family therapist
- Tools for managing stress, improving parenting, and supporting children emotionally and academically
The programme creates a safe, supportive, and creative environment while strengthening family communication and community connection.
Which group(s) or communities is your project intended to support?
- Primary and secondary-aged children (5–16 years), particularly from low-income or underrepresented communities in Brixton and Lambeth
- Parents and carers needing emotional support, parenting advice, or peer connection
- The local community, by improving literacy, reducing isolation, and activating a valuable public space (Brixton Library)
What difference will it make?
This programme tackles the decline in children’s literacy, mental wellbeing, and family cohesion by:
- Boosting reading and writing confidence through engaging, hands-on storytelling
- Reducing screen time and encouraging self-expression
- Providing mental health support for both children and their parents
- Empowering children by publishing their stories and making them feel heard and valued
- Helping families build stronger relationships and support networks
- Using a trusted, accessible local venue that encourages positive community use
How will this funding help your community?
The funding will allow us to run the programme consistently throughout the academic year. It will cover:
- Facilitator, counsellor, and therapist fees
- Room hire at Brixton Library
- Publishing costs for the children’s anthology books
- Snacks and creative writing materials
- Admin, safeguarding, and insurance to ensure a safe and well-managed environment
This investment will improve literacy, wellbeing, and community confidence — especially among families who face barriers to accessing creative or mental health services.
Why do you think your project will be a success?
We have already tested and proven this model during the Cocoa Dream Summer School 2025 at the Black Cultural Archives. Children became published authors, improved their literacy skills, and developed confidence. Parents reported stronger relationships with their children and better emotional resilience.
Now based at Brixton Library, the programme is embedded in a central, accessible, and trusted location with long-term potential. With the right support, we can reach even more families and create lasting impact.
Our work has also recently been honoured on ITV This Morning and you can watch the feature here: