Poetry in Mind

Published: 05 October 2023

Overall, over 100 poems were submitted as part of West Berkshire Council's Poetry in Mind campaign.  Selections can be found at the following venues until the end of October: 

• Pangbourne Library
• Thatcham Library
• Theale Library 
• Shaw House, Newbury
• West Berkshire Museum, Newbury
• Burghfield Common Library 
• Mortimer Library
• Newbury Library
• Northcroft Leisure Centre, Newbury 

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Being creative can have many positive effects including helping to improve mood, take one’s mind of things, improve brain function, boost self-esteem and confidence and even lead to an improved social life. West Berkshire Council’s Poetry in Mind campaign is intended to encourage residents with stress and anxiety to explore their creativity and write about their feelings as a way of improving their health and wellbeing.

Poems or creative writing pieces on the following themes are particularly welcomed from individuals and communities:

• social isolation and loneliness
• finding refuge
• exploring anxious feelings
• mental health and wellbeing

All entries must be e-mailed to publichealthandwellbeing@westberks.gov.uk by Thursday 31 August 2023.

Selected poems will be featured at Shaw House, in West Berkshire libraries and in the council offices for the public to read in connection with National Poetry Day on Thursday 5 October. Residents will also be able to read poems they have chosen or written themselves in public spaces and on social media.

National Poetry Day is an event which encourages everyone to make, experience and share poetry, and this year’s theme is “Refuge”.