A storyteller who documents the lives of ordinary Scousers through social media said he wants to give a platform to Liverpool's marginalised groups and homeless population.
Adam Thompson, 26 from South Liverpool began Humans of Liverpool in 2018 after being inspired by Humans of New York. The page was based on interviewing ordinary New Yorkers on the street and Adam thought the concept would work in his home city.
Recent posts on Humans of Liverpool include a marathon runner raising awareness of bowel cancer, a baker with dyslexia and a recently-graduated student. They are unfiltered quotes from the interviewee who Adam can spend up to two hours speaking to on the street.
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Adam said: “I wanted to share stories that people can relate to which show we all face the same challenges. Social media can encourage you to present versions of yourself, but I’ve found that reading about the true version of people is very comforting.”
He added: “The stories about society’s most vulnerable people resonate the most with me. Whether it's someone who is homeless, or is struggling with addiction, it gives you an insight into other people's lives that you wouldn't normally get."
Adam said his stories can lead to some of the people he interviews receiving the help they need. One example is a homeless man he spoke to on the street. He said: “That story that stands out to me. After my post about him was published, he was offered a job, a place to stay and his dog was given a dog bed.”
Adam's stories have also connected the city’s buskers and created informal support networks. For Adam, this is an example of Liverpool’s “united community”.
“This is a place which is international and looks outwards but also looks after its own. I already knew this about Liverpool, but spending my days on the streets have made me realise even more how open and kind people are.”
Adam argues that, despite Liverpool’s rich cultural history, amazing stories can still emanate from “the fella you meet down the shop”. Putting ordinary people at the forefront was always his aim.
Adam added: “I didn’t predict the page to be in this position after five years. I just wanted to have fun while also giving a platform to those who don’t have one.”
This ethical mission has led Adam to work with The Big Issue North. He was recently tasked with humanising the vendors across the north which sell the magazine in town and city centres.
He said: “I wanted to humanise vendors and give an insight into their personal stories and struggles.” Adam has also spoken to Ukrainian refugees in preparation for Eurovision and is working with Liverpool John Moores University as part of its 200th anniversary.
Adam is speaking to current students, as well as lecturers past and present, who have been the backbone of the university. He has also been given insights into more prominent figures such as Joanne Anderson, discussing her upbringing in 1980s Liverpool and time as a student.
On his plans going forward, Adam said: “I want to continue to tell amazing stories, to connect communities and work with like-minded organisations who share the ethics of the page.” You can visit Humans of Liverpool on Instagram and Facebook.
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