The advent of the Troubles was a deeply traumatic experience for her. Brought up in a 'mixed' community she watched in disbelief and horror as that community disintegrated under the impact of inter-communal violence. She became increasingly involved in grassroots community work and an active participant in the developing 'peace process'.

In 1999, in recognition of her years of trade union and community endeavours, May Blood was offered a life peerage and a seat in the House of Lords, the first working-class person from Northern Ireland to be so honoured. Her initial response was to decline the offer, for to her the House of Lords was a place where rich old men sat around and slept all day, a place far removed from the everyday realities of working-class Belfast. Nevertheless, she took her seat, hoping that, as 'Baroness May Blood', she could advance the causes she holds so dear.

She has lived to see the end of the Troubles, but a society still deeply divided and one still needing people with her undiminished energy and commitment. Watch My Lips, I'm Speaking is not only May's own story, but a unique insight into how ordinary people strove to rise above the appalling experience which had engulfed them.