Staff from Black Country Healthcare have created a book collating their experiences of the Coronavirus pandemic through the medium of poetry.

The book called ‘A Small Book of Covid Poems’ collects words from nurses, as well as other staff members who are vital to keeping the health service going, including admin staff and carers.

Judy McDonald, who was previously Interim Chief Nursing Officer at Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and retired just last year, came up with the idea during lockdown after noticing a number of people were using the written word to help express and manage their feelings during the pandemic. Judy said:

“I am proud that alongside all of my professional colleagues, our service users, carers and members of the public - we have seen peoples’ words and feelings transform into action to bring us through the pandemic together.

“It felt important that we had real voices and real reflections during this difficult time to help use reflect on significant events with loved ones and find some positivity in the things so many have taken from lockdown, such as the spirit and resilience shown by the local community.

“I’d like to thank all those who have contributed to the making of the book and I would also like to dedicate it to all those who lost their lives in services during the pandemic.”

Mark Axcell, Chief Executive, said: “During a time of such uncertainty this book has shown the depth of compassionate care and commitment alongside the professional demeanour of those who work at Black Country Healthcare.

“Poetry is often shared with people during times of despair and I have seen how much poetry can do in helping to change a mood, to inspire and to act as a form of solace.

“On behalf of the Trust, I would like to express my gratitude to all the staff who took part in this gesture. The beautiful verses are guaranteed to help readers and really encompass the spirit that makes Black Country Healthcare the Trust that it is!’’

‘A Small Book of Covid Poems’ can be viewed by visiting the Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust website.