Kirklees holds first conference to spread the word on book benfits

Apr 15 2009 By Natalie Mullins

Dr Judith Hooper, Director of Public Health for NHS Kirklees, said: “Reading opens the world to all of us, much more so when we are limited by some form of distress or ill health.

“This guided discovery has proved so useful to many people in expanding their worlds that can be so limited by their disability or illness.”

Jo Haslam is a bibliotherapist based in Slaithwaite and also works in the Colne Valley. She said: “We use fiction and poetry as a form of therapy. People only see reading as a hobby and not as a healthy option.

“Reading groups and bookchat groups provide mental stimulation to lonely isolated elderly in care homes. Crafts and visits from animal groups are also used.

One regular user of the service said: “It’s really important in my life. I wouldn’t willingly miss a session. It’s got my brain working differently.”

The conference costs £30 (including lunch) and will cover topics such as creative writing, bibliotherapy for older people, children and young people and working on a psychiatric ward.

For more information on the conference or an application form contact Julie Walker on 01484 226364 or email: julie.walker@kirklees.gov.uk.