Looking for more in Reading and Stories or Reading is Caring?
Reading is Caring: I am a family member or friend
If you live in Fife, the Scottish Borders, Edinburgh or the Lothians, you can sign up for free workshops now by emailing readingiscaring@scottishbooktrust.com(this link will open in a new window)
What is Reading is Caring?
Reading is Caring is an established, free course that supports Care Partners to create personalised shared reading experiences specifically designed for the individual they are caring for who is living with dementia.
Reading is Caring builds on your existing caring relationship and demonstrates the benefits of a personalised shared reading experience with someone who is living with dementia.
Together, we will build on your existing relationship
The course encourages reading aloud and bases its guidance around the different stages of the dementia journey and how to adapt the content and format of the reading materials chosen.
It’s beneficial because we put the individual living with dementia at the centre of the process and personalise the reading experience to their specific needs, requirements, and interests.
I was reading to her from a book we had a shared history with and holding her hand as she died. I think it helped. Even towards the end when she couldn't speak or open her eyes but was peaceful, we would get a raised eyebrow or twitch of the lip in response to poems and texts she knew and loved.
Get involved
We have a flexible schedule and can arrange sessions to suit your unique circumstances. We also provide support to cover the costs of care so you can take part.
Please get in touch for more information on our latest workshop dates (listed below) and how we can help.
- If you live in Fife, the Scottish Borders, Edinburgh or the Lothians, you can sign up for free online workshops now by emailing readingiscaring@scottishbooktrust.com(this link will open in a new window) or using the form below.
- If you live elsewhere in Scotland, sign up for our newsletter to keep up to date with where Reading is Caring goes next and all things Scottish Book Trust.
Want to learn more about the workshops before taking part? Check out our Reading is Caring FAQs.
We are currently offering a series of half-day workshops that take place online. Please visit the page below to find upcoming workshop dates. If you can't attend on any of these days, or would prefer to take part in person, do get in touch and we'll see how we can work together.
It was as if when we read together, she was lost with me in the story, and we then talk about the story as if her dementia was no longer there.