The Koestler Awards at Heatherwood Court

Each year the patients we support at Heatherwood Court Hospital enter the Koestler Awards, an annual creative arts awards aimed at individuals within the criminal justice system.

We are incredibly proud to share that one of this year’s entrants from Heatherwood Court – C – has had their poem ‘These Safe Walls’ shortlisted for the fifth edition of Koestler’s official published poetry book, Koestler Voices: New Poetry from Prisons Vol.5.

These Safe Walls by C

As one of 50 pieces featured in this volume, C’s work was shortlisted from thousands of entries across the UK. Their poem offers a thoughtful and insightful perspective about the comfort and safety they have gained within the criminal justice system, juxtaposed with the uncertainty they have faced throughout their life:

The wilderness was my captor,

yet within these walls I found my freedom.

How this world can leave me speechless,

the unpredictability of every circumstance.

Even these bars give me reassurance,

all the nights I would lay awake under the stars,

there was no peace in being so exposed.

That face imprinted on the moon became distorted,

I’m sure he stared at me with evil intent.

However, this pillow I can now rest my head on is harmless;

at the end of the day I can hear it calling me to lay for as long as I need,

and now that I’m no longer on constant alert,

I can do so comfortably. 

Koestler Voices Vol. 5

This special edition is an anthology that features works from individuals in prisons, secure hospitals, and community settings. Edited by Lady Unchained – an individual with lived experience of the criminal justice system – the edition elevates a diverse and cast of voices to share their unique experiences and creativity through poetry.

The edition also features a foreword by esteemed poet Inua Ellams, who is also the curator of Koestler’s National Exhibition this year at the Southbank Centre.

Following publication, the book will be featured in every prison library in the UK, sold in the official Koestler shop, and potentially adapted for radio, events, and exhibitions.

As an officially published writer, C will also receive their own copy of Koestler Voices Vol. 5 – a reward that reflects their remarkable achievement.

Where to read Koestler Voices Vol. 5?

This edition of Koestler Voices is still in production, and will be available at the end of October. You can read previous volumes of Koestler Voices and buy Volume 5 at the charity’s official store.