Better with a Book: The Reader Organisation’s National Conference 2014
The Reader Organisation’s National Conference 2014
‘Better with a Book: Exploring the Relationship between Literature and Mental Health’
9am-4.30pm, Thursday 15th May 2014
British Library Conference Centre, Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB
The Reader Organisation’s fifth annual national conference will explore how our shared reading model uses literature to improve mental health, reduce social isolation and enhance quality of life.
Shared reading groups currently take place every week in health, criminal justice, community, and education settings across the UK, providing individuals with the tools to transform their relationship to themselves and one another.
“Literature and poetry have helped me to cope with what is going on in my life” - shared reading group member
Academic research into The Reader Organisation’s projects has demonstrated statistically significant improvements in the mental health of those suffering mild to moderate depression, reduced agitation for those suffering with dementia, and improved emotional, social and educational wellbeing for women in prison.
This conference offers an opportunity for commissioners, practitioners and professionals from all sectors to examine the impact of shared reading on individuals, communities and organisations.
Confirmed Speakers include:
- Lord Melvyn Bragg, writer, broadcaster and former President of MIND
- Baroness Estelle Morris, former Secretary of State for Education, and Dr Alice Sullivan, Institute for Education, discussing the role of reading in schools
- Nick Benefield, former NHSE PD Advisor and Joint Head NSHE/NOMS Offender PD Team, and Lord Alan Howarth, All Party Parliamentary Group for Arts, Health and Wellbeing, discussing the effect of shared reading in secure mental health settings.
Booking information
Full day delegate, including lunch and refreshments - £140
Book your place online: https://readerorganisationconference.eventbrite.co.uk
Alternatively, you can pay by cheque or invoice. Head to our website to download a booking form and return, with your payment, to Abigail Leader: abigailleader@thereader.org.uk or send to The Reader Organisation, The Friary Centre, Bute Street, Liverpool, L5 3LA
For queries or further information, please contact Abigail: abigailleader@thereader.org.uk or call 0151 207 7221
Follow @thereaderorg and hashtag #betterwithabook for the latest conference updates.
Share
Related Articles

The Reader launches new Shared Reading group in Spellow Library ‘open to everyone, regardless of background or literacy levels’
The Liverpool-based national charity’s new weekly group is a free and enjoyable activity where people can connect and share experiences…

A breath of fresh air! This summer’s outdoor and cultural events at our Calderstones Park home
The Reader serves up a giant scoop of summer arts and entertainment from three special summer garden parties with special…

Ranked: The Novels of Jane Austen
2025 marks the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen's birth and it's got us thinking about what an incredible legacy she…