18/05/2015 - Permalink

Reading Well books on Prescription for Dementia scheme extended

Related topics: Community / Health

Libraries in Shropshire are marking Dementia Awareness Week (Sunday 17 May – Saturday 23 May 2015) with an extension to the Reading Well Books on Prescription for Dementia scheme which launched nationally earlier this year. Six library branches already offer free loans of the books which provide information to those living with dementia their carers and now, thanks to funding from ip&e’s Help2Change, an additional seven libraries are stocking the collections.

Mirka Duxberry, library commissioning manager for health and well-being, said;:

“We are delighted that libraries in Albrighton, Shifnal, Ellesmere, Wem, Bayston Hill, Harlescott and Bishop’s Castle are now offering access to the Books on Prescription for Dementia collections, which are proving so invaluable in other parts of the county. Through our membership of Shropshire Dementia Action Alliance, we are committed to the provision of a welcoming and helpful library service for people living with dementia – and the fact that staff in 18 of our branches are now Dementia Friends underlines that commitment.”

A series of free events is planned for Dementia Awareness Week. Library staff are supporting the Alzheimer’s Society’s ‘Dementia Day in The Square’ in Shrewsbury today (18 May) and Bridgnorth Library will host a drop-in with Jan Roberts, a Society support worker, on 21 May.

At 7pm at Church Stretton Library on 20 May, author Gillian Griffith will be talking about her book “Up the Creek Without a Paddle” which describes her family’s experience of the illness.

Dementia-friendly teatimes with refreshments and a reminiscence activity will also be taking place at the following branches: Bishop’s Castle Library on 20 May 10am-1pm, Albrighton Library on 22 May 10am-12pm and Shifnal Library on 4 June from 3pm-4pm.

All events are free. For more information, contact Mirka Duxberry on 01743-255031 or email heather.rodenhurst@shropshire.gov.uk. Further details can be found at shropshire.gov.uk/libraries.