Manchester Museum has announced author Anita Sethi as its first ever Writer-in-Residence in its long history.

Anita is an award-winning writer and broadcaster whose acclaimed book ‘I Belong Here: A Journey along the Backbone of Britain’ blends memoir, nature writing and current affairs. The paperback edition will be published this spring.

As part of the year-long residency, Anita will draw on the museum’s collections for inspiration to write, collaborate and teach.

A series of free workshops will offer attendees opportunities to develop their creative writing skills. One of the first workshops will focus on the links between writing and wellbeing and Anita says this is particularly important to her following a serious accident in Iceland earlier this year.

Anita Sethi, said: “I’m overjoyed to be appointed Writer-in-Residence for Manchester Museum – it feels like a match made in heaven. The museum is rich in history and I’m eager to delve into the fascinating objects here, all of which tell a story. As well as making the most of the setting, I’m looking forward to working alongside inspiring people.”

“On a personal level, this feels like a real moment of revival. I was in a serious accident at the start of this year when I was walking in Iceland. I was in shock following the ordeal and had a broken right arm – the limb which is my livelihood – making the process of writing extremely challenging. But my work and words have brought me back from the brink and as I begin this residency in my hometown, the great city of Manchester, I’m more passionate than ever about the connection between writing, nature, healing and wellbeing.”

Esme Ward, said: “We’re honoured to welcome Anita Sethi to Manchester Museum. She is a true storyteller whose work explores important themes of womanhood, resilience, nature, place and belonging, as well as the more toxic elements of society like racism, hate and inequality.”

“Being based in the museum means Anita can take inspiration from the extraordinary collections and displays, and also engage with our communities, staff and co-workers. We’re excited to see the work she produces here.”

• Find our more about Anita’s work
• Anita has a foundation that aims to get books to those who don’t have easy access to them.