Visual Voices exhibition focused on inclusion, participation and basic rights

An intriguing exhibition was held in Central Library in Waterford City recently which focused attention on basic rights and inclusivity.

The exhibition, 'Visual Voices: Reflective Visual Representations Advocating for the Right to a Home, Inclusion and Participation in the Community' went on display in the library in Lady Lane earlier this month.

It was the first in a series of travelling exhibitions forming part of a longitudinal study exploring the lived experiences of people housed through the START (Support for Tenancy and Recovery Targets) programme which is a partnership between South East HSE Mental Health Services, Local Authorities, and Approved Housing Bodies.

A spokesperson for Waterford libraries, in an online statement about the exhibition said: 'Many people who experience mental health difficulties also face significant barriers in accessing secure, appropriate housing. The START programme addresses these challenges by providing secure tenancies and personalised, recovery-focused support. This approach enables individuals to live independently, build and maintain a home, and participate fully in their communities.'

'Through a series of photographs and personal captions, participants reflect on their journeys of recovery, inclusion, creating a home, and community life, offering powerful insights into their lived experiences,' said the spokesperson in the statement.

The exhibition launch was well attended, and people were enthralled by the individuality of the pieces and the intimacy of the experiences displayed.