Read the evaluation of the 2023/24 Reading is Caring programme

The pilot of our Reading is Caring programme first launched in 2019. Reading is Caring is a programme supporting people living with dementia and those who care for them (professional carers and family care partners) through shared reading workshops. 

This in-house evaluation of the 2023/24 programme examines the impact that Reading is Caring has on people living with dementia and those who care for them, reflects on delivery and discusses possible future developments.

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Key conclusions

• 100% of respondents reported that, as a direct result of the Reading is Caring approach, they have 'a sense of being more connected to the person they care for'
• 81% of respondents agreed that they 'learned something new about dementia' 
• 94% of respondents would recommend the training to others in a similar caring role 
• 88% of respondents agreed that they 'gained useful skills in how to deliver shared reading / create life story book boxes' 

Four themes emerge as the key outcomes from Year 4 of Reading is Caring:

The following are quotes from participants in the Reading is Caring programme.

Engagement and enjoyment 

• 'Reading with someone you love so, so much with dementia with a book they can connect with somewhere (their home), a space they are comfortable and feel safe in, to read a book together. Get the book that the person living with dementia thoroughly enjoyed, and read together and can open up other conversations.' 

Shared memories 

• 'We do read a bit of poetry, but I've contacted relatives who live away, asking them to write a letter/card every so often, giving updates on their lives/families etc. We read those together. I'm also exploring old newspaper cutting from when he was in his 20s, which has been a really good way of stimulating further memories/conversation.' 

High-quality training and workshops 

• 'The training was excellent, format etc., and the trainer was a lovely caring, understanding empathetic lady and lovely to speak to. The format was excellent ... and most importantly having the right person(s) to deliver the training is absolutely essential.' 
• 'I think it is an ideal resource. It allows a really intimate shared space, something that can easily get lost when supporting people living with dementia.' 

Programme legacy 

• 'It gives us a strong sense of connection. It is something we can do together and both enjoy. It adds value to our very stressful lives.' 
• 'Reading is very important.'  

Please note: Our 2022/23 evaluation executive summary was converted from an accessible word document to protect the content of our external examiner. If you require the information in an alternative format, please contact [email protected](this link will open in a new window).