'These Are The Hands'

(inspired by Michael Rosen’s poem)

These are the hands that plough the fields
plant the seed
pick the crop
pack it up
and drive the trucks
that deliver your food.
These are the hands that stack the shelves
work the checkout
so we can feed ourselves.
These are the hands that drive the vans
deliver your post
and your parcels too.
These are the hands that drive the bus
guide the trains
so others can work
and care for us.
These are the hands that empty your bins
take away those things
you’ve thrown out
dispose them out of your sight
or send for recycling
These are the hands that keep you warm
and keep the lights on
keep your water running
and deal with your waste
keeping us safe.

These hands and more
are our essential workers
carrying on
doing those tasks
that we can’t do without.
Value them all
Thank them all
and please wash your hands.