Read and Remember Volunteers

What is a Read and Remember Volunteer?

A Read and Remember volunteer enables an older or disabled person or a person living with mild to moderate dementia or depression, to enjoy a weekly or fortnightly shared reading experience, either one to one in theri own home, or as part of small friendly group.

What’s in it for you?

• The pleasure of seeing isolated people benefitting from stories
• The opportunity to develop your skills at reading aloud
• The opportunity to help and meet with others in your community
• Be part of a team offering this experience, and share from each other

What’s involved?

A Read and Remember volunteer will:

• Read aloud to adults in a one-to-one or group setting regularly, either in the person’s home or as  part of a group meeting at the local library
• Encourage your partner or group to talk about the text, and explore memories and feelings evoked
• Choose suitable texts, and  prepare for the session – the library staff will help you to find  suitable books and materials
• Encourage your partner or group to read other books, or listen to audio books from the library

Will this role suit me?

The role will suit people who:

• Can read aloud fluently and with expression, in Welsh or English
• Enjoy meeting new people, and have the ability to engage and  empathise with individuals and their families and carers, living with mild to moderate dementias and depression
• Are able to offer 1 hour a week to support an individual or group in your area (plus preparation time)
• Are patient and approachable, and sensitive to people’s emotional needs.
• Are reliable, confident and responsible, with an enthusiasm about books, libraries and literacy
• Have the ability to cope with the duties and responsibilities of the role and the associated environment, including an understanding of health and safety

Other information:

• Full training will be given, with ongoing  support from the local library
• An enhanced DBS check will be undertaken by Powys County Council, before you begin volunteering
• Once training is completed, you will be given a volunteer ID card
• A commitment of  6 months is required, to allow the opportunity to build a relationship with your partner or group

Reading aloud training sessions organised, as follows:

Weds 20th Feb     Brecon Library 1.30 – 4.30pm

Friday 22^nd Feb      Newtown Library, times to be confirmed

Weds 6th March   Rhayader Library 10am – 1.00pm

Friday 8th March  Newtown Library, times to be confirmed         

Weds 13th March  Knighton Library 1.30 – 4.30pm

Weds 20th March  Ystradgynlais Library 1.30 – 4.30pm

Each session is for 10-12 people,

Bookings are being taken by Trish Thomas patricia.thomas@powys.gov.uk