about the project - page two
Principal Officer
Direct Services Older People
Social Work Services, Glasgow City Council
This project has brought great benefits to the residents, the staff who work with them, and to their families and friends. Anthea has a talent for engaging with people and for bringing out thoughts, ideas and feelings which might otherwise go unspoken and unheard.
I will never forget the first time I attended a book launch. The room was filled with the authors, their relatives and friends, and staff. During the book being read out aloud, there was laughter and tears. Seeing the joy of the authors, their sense of pride and achievement, and the importance to them of having their voices heard, appreciated and enjoyed, was a deeply moving experience. I have seen and experienced this at each book launch that I have attended since.
This whole project has been nothing but positive for all. I am delighted that the residents with dementia in Glasgow City Council's residential units are having this opportunity to experience Anthea’s innovative approach. I find their poems and writing profoundly moving and meaningful, and I think they would bring richness and new insights to a wide audience. I am looking forward to seeing many more books created by them in the future, and to their voices continuing to be heard.
Susan Baird
Arts Development Officer
Cultural and Leisure Services, Glasgow City Council
I have enjoyed reading every single word - the stories and banter, the insights and outlooks, the memories, the fun and games. And I have felt moved by the words of sadness, difficult times and individual experiences of dementia.
I have also been lucky enough to have shared in two book readings and to see and feel the pride and happiness these bring.
This project has deeply touched all those involved: participants, family, friends, staff, and the writer-in-residence - as well as all who have read the beautiful books created. I sincerely hope that I and many others will continue to get the chance in future to hear such strong voices telling it in their own words.
Kirsty White
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