Abney Court rolls out the red carpet for World Read Aloud Day

Home news

Feb 10, 2017

Abney Court is inviting the local community to attend an exclusive screening of a short film filmed at the home to celebrate World Read Aloud Day.

On Thursday 16th February, the team at Abney Court will open its doors from 2pm for three free film screenings, featuring an international story teller, as well as an interactive reading session.

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

As part of the celebration, the Care UK team is setting up reading aloud spaces including a poetry corner, short story area and an audio book will be playing in the family room. The team will also be dressing up as characters from famous stories, and there will be information available on the services provided by a local mobile library.

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, Tracy Mitchell, explained why Abney Court 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. 

“We were thrilled to have the filming take place at Abney Court. The residents and Care UK team really enjoyed being involved in the film and sharing the benefits of reading aloud. We hope that people in Cheadle will join us for a delightful afternoon of storytelling and opportunity to discuss favourite books and classic literature.”

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 Cheadle 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 Abney Court for this special day.”