How poetry has healing powers

Watch our story by ITV Meridian reporter Mary Stanley

People are being helped with loneliness, stress and isolation through the power of poetry. Poetry for Wellbeing courses are being been run by Kathryn Bevis, who has been Hampshire's Poet Laureate since January 2020.

"Some people have come to us just because they're a little bit lonely or isolated during the pandemic. Some come because they're referred by a social prescriber. Maybe they've got current mental health concern or in recovery from substance misuse. And some people just want to learn a new skill."

Kathryn Bevis also works with inmates at Winchester prison. Research has found that reading and writing poetry can improve mood and relieve symptoms of anxiety, stress and trauma.

Madeleine O'Beirne hadn't written poetry since she was at school, but during the pandemic discovered what she calls its magic and healing.  

"I think it's putting down words and returning to things and being able to reflect on my life that I find healing. That idea of looking at what's gone, but also what's to come. I think it's a lovely, reflective process."

The poetry for wellbeing courses were funded by Hampshire Cultural Trust