WELCOME

from Unbroken - Barnsley Through the Pandemic

BOOK RELEASE

The Covid pandemic has affected, and continues to affect, individuals and communities in different ways.

The unprecedented circumstances of a global pandemic have been felt in Barnsley, as they have across the world. Throughout the Borough people have lost loved ones, experienced long term ill health, faced separation from family and friends and uncertainty about the future. The pandemic exacerbated existing health inequalities and issues of social isolation, and its impact will still be felt for years to come.

Despite this, since lockdown was announced in March 2020, there are a multitude of examples of communities across Barnsley working together to support each other through difficult times. From making PPE for NHS staff to knitting hearts for hospital patients, sewing face masks to setting up food donations for people who needed them, Barnsley residents have demonstrated their incredible care and compassion, seeking ways to improve the situation for themselves and others.

That sense of community spirit, and the examples of what Barnsley’s diverse communities can do when we work together should never be left behind. In the words of Ian McMillan, to all of our residents and communities, ‘Barnsley’s fierce love holds you forever in its heart’.

‘Unbroken’ was brought about through a collaboration between Barnsley Museums, Barnsley Chronicle & Barnsley Museums & Heritage Trust and made possible through generous contributions of staff time from all the organisations involved and funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery Players. Its aim was to ensure that memories and experiences relating to the pandemic in Barnsley were captured, curated & stored, allowing future generations to reflect on this extraordinary period.