Poets Corner

Poets corner

Arne Court in Basildon, Essex, is a temporary homeless scheme for singles, couples and families. The staff team wanted to encourage the tenants to reflect on their personal experience of the pandemic, and express their thoughts and feelings through poetry.

Well done to Penelope, who received a chocolate hamper for this winning poem:

COVID

Causing families and friends to be torn apart, but writing letters and face timing to ease an aching heart.

Obeying laws, rules and guidance, watching figures rise and fall. Each doing our part to protect each other no matter how small.

Victoriously being reunited, but restrictions still in place. Repeatedly being reminded, hands, face, make space.

Inspiring us all to create, bake and cook. Watching lots of films, loosing yourself in a good book.

Despite all of the hurdles and facing the unknown, the “new normal” they call it, the ability to adjust we have shown.

We have learnt to appreciate the smallest of things. A cup of tea with Nan, watching a child play on the swings.

We know that time is precious, and have learnt the best things are free. Covid has united us as one, but will a vaccine be the key?

To returning us to normal, taking off our masks. Hugging our nearest and dearest and leaving corona in the past? Deborah Bolam, a Specialist Support Worker based in Castle Point, Essex, wrote a wonderful poem about what her amazing team has been up to during the pandemic:

Castlepoint Team v Covid-19

Working together through Covid-19, working from home still being a team

Answering phone calls and giving advice, Maureen & Julie the girls are so nice Trina, Lois & Sophie are great filling those forms with no hesitate

Juwon, Marta, Debs and Sue pick up those phones there’s lots we can do

Cindy & Laura we all work so well, pulling together to get through this hell

Helping the homeless delivering the food, benefits and housing lifting the mood

If you need help you know where to come Castlepoint Team will get things done

And last of all I have to say, Sue Jenkins our manager makes our day

Lifting our spirits her words never fail What she does is keep up morale

When all this is over let’s hope and pray Families and friends will have lots to say

All keep safe and our paths will cross, thinking of those who have suffered a loss

A poem from our cover star Hetty at the Sundial Centre titled "Thank you Carers and Keyworkers"

You do your work with dedication The care you give is true medication Behind the mask is the unseen smile You take our care to the extra mile Everyday you face the danger But still are there to help a stranger So I raise my glass in admiration You are a credit to our troubled nation