Hartismere Place hits the books for World Read Aloud Day

Home news

Feb 10, 2017

Hartismere Place is inviting the local community to attend an exclusive screening of a short film to celebrate World Read Aloud Day.

On Thursday 16^th February, the team at Hartismere Place will open its doors from 11am for the free screening featuring an international story teller.

The film will feature the Storyteller Laureate, Taffy Thomas MBE, performing a story and providing tips and advice for reading aloud. 

World Read Aloud Day is an annual event which celebrates the importance of reading aloud and sharing stories, and it is celebrated by millions of people in more than 100 countries.

Care UK has teamed up with the patron of The Society for Storytelling to promote the therapeutic benefits of reading aloud to older people. Taffy is currently the most experienced English storyteller in the country, having performed globally with a repertoire of more than 300 stories.

Home manager, Marie Reeve, explained why Hartismere Place is taking part in World Read Aloud Day: “Reading aloud has many therapeutic benefits for older people. It is calming for those living with dementia, helpful for those with failing eyesight, and soothing for those unable to communicate. It is also an enjoyable activity that family and friends can do with their loved one when paying them a visit. 

“The film really brings to life the benefits of reading aloud. Taffy is an incredibly expressive storyteller, and he really transports listeners to the fictional worlds in his stories. We hope that people in Eye will join us for a delightful day of storytelling and opportunity to discuss favourite books and classic literature – along with complementary refreshments for all our visitors.”

Taffy Thomas MBE, Storyteller Laureate and patron of The Society for Storytelling, said: “I’m thrilled to be supporting Care UK with this brilliant initiative to celebrate World Read Aloud Day. I want to help encourage the community in Eye to share the benefits of storytelling and embrace the power of reading aloud, as no matter what their age or ability, this is an activity for all.

“I hope local people will join the team and residents at Hartismere Place for this special day.”