'We Are Here' is a video poem, written and narrated by Dean Parkin and produced by Poetry People.
Halesworth-based charity the Pear Tree Fund commissioned Poetry People in 2022 to create a video poem to raise awareness of how Compassionate Communities can offer vital practical and emotional support to local people at challenging times of need.
As part of his research and to generate authentic content for the poem, Dean interviewed people connected with Halesworth Compassionate Communities and also attended group sessions at the Pear Tree Centre in Halesworth. He heard first-hand accounts – from individual clients, family members, carers and volunteers – of illness, disability, life-changing diagnosis and bereavement, and of how Pear Tree can help people achieve a better quality of life and their best possible death.
‘We Are Here’ was filmed and edited by Alex Jeffery of Creative Nation, the music was composed and performed by pianist Maurice Horhut, and the producer was Naomi Jaffa. Special thanks to John Appleton and Sally-Ann Burnett for their participation in filming.
'We Are Here' was commissioned by NIHR ARC East of England/UEA and The Pear Tree Fund on behalf of Halesworth Compassionate Community. (running time: 4.28 minutes)