What do a well-loved poem, a warm cuppa and a room full of conversation have in common? At Abbeyfield Lear House, they’re all part of our Shared Reading afternoons with the brilliant Anne from The Reader.
Last month, we gathered once again for one of these gentle, soul-nourishing sessions. There’s something special about reading aloud together. The poems we share are more than just words on a page – they spark memories, laughter and sometimes the odd happy tear. As we read, the group begins to open up, drawing out stories from the past and thoughts on the present too.
Anne has a real knack for choosing pieces that speak to everyone in different ways. Maybe it’s a line that reminds someone of their schooldays or a verse that takes another back to a place they once lived. Before we know it, we’re chatting about old jobs, family holidays, pets, wartime sweethearts, the music that shaped us and the moments that really matter.
This isn’t just about reading. It’s about connecting – with each other, with our memories and with the little things that make life rich and meaningful. And it’s another lovely example of the community-centric living we’re so proud of here at Abbeyfield Hoylake & West Kirby.
Sessions like this sit right at the heart of our approach to adaptable care. Everyone is encouraged to take part in their own way – whether that’s reading a line, sharing a memory or simply listening. It’s calm, comforting and completely optional. But more often than not, it gets everyone talking. The afternoon may start with poetry, but it often ends with stories about childhood adventures, long-lost hobbies or life-changing journeys. That’s the beauty of Shared Reading – it opens the door to meaningful conversations that might not happen otherwise.
And what better setting than Lear House, our warm and welcoming Residential Care Home in West Kirby? With its friendly atmosphere, beautiful communal spaces and round-the-clock support, it’s the kind of place where moments like these really flourish. Whether you’re here for long-term Residential Care, a short break of Respite Care, or just exploring your options, you’ll always be met with genuine care and heartfelt conversation.
To find out more about life at Abbeyfield Lear House, our partnership with The Reader, or the many other enriching activities we offer, visit our Abbeyfield Hoylake & West Kirby website. And if you’d like to learn more about the incredible work done by Anne and her team, take a peek at The Reader’s website.
Because here, care is more than a service – it’s a story we write together.