Patient poem wins national creative writing competition

A talented poet from a ward in St Andrew’s Healthcare in Birmingham has been recognised in a national competition.

Sandra*, who is being cared for on Moor Green Ward, was selected as a winner in the Quality Network for Forensic Mental Health Services (QNFMHS) Summer Artwork and Creative Writing Competition.
Run by the Royal College of Psychiatrists' Quality Network for QNFMHS, the competition showcases outstanding creative writing and artwork from patients and carers across the country, providing a platform for self-expression and creativity.

Entitled Perfection: One Word Emotions - Poetry Collection, the poem was chosen from hundreds of entries.

Adult Education Teacher Andrew Kane, who has been championing Sandra from the start, said: “Sandra’s collection is both poignant and thought-provoking, exploring emotions and experiences in a way that is likely to resonate with many of her peers.

“Through her powerful use of language, she demonstrates how creative writing can provide a meaningful outlet for self-expression, reflection and connection.

Sandra's achievement is a wonderful recognition of her creativity and dedication to her craft, and everyone at Moor Green is incredibly proud of her success.

Sandra said: “I enjoy writing poetry and I find it is a way of expressing my thoughts, emotions and experiences. I had no idea of the impact that my poems had on people .. it is lovely to have the positive feedback from people who have read them.”

Creative writing and education are key parts of St Andrew’s Healthcare’s therapeutic offerings, helping patients with complex mental health conditions build confidence, develop new skills and find meaningful ways to express themselves.

Perfection - Poem by Sandra on Moor Green