Literary characters leapt to life as Royal Star & Garter celebrated World Book Day.

The charity marked the day at each of its three Homes, in Solihull, Surbiton and High Wycombe, on Thursday 3 March.

Royal Star & Garter provides loving, compassionate care to veterans and their partners living with disability or dementia.

Reading and story-telling plays an important role in looking after residents’ wellbeing at Royal Star & Garter, with a library in each Home and activities, including Book Clubs, led by Wellness Coordinators. Research shows reading keeps the mind alert and reduces the symptoms of memory loss. It can also lead to new friendships and have an impact on social lives.[1]

At the Surbiton Home, children from nearby St Matthew’s School’s Reception Class dressed up as their favourite book characters and sang songs with residents on a Zoom call.

In High Wycombe, staff came to work dressed as characters from their favourite books, and residents in Solihull took part in a book quiz to celebrate the day.

Pauline Shaw, Director of Care at Royal Star & Garter, said: “Whether it’s reducing stress, improving memory or allowing people to connect, the benefits reading brings to our mental wellbeing is well known, and is an important part of the holistic care we provide.”

Royal Star & Garter is welcoming new residents. For more information on this, or working for the charity, please go to www.starandgarter.org

[1] https://www.ageukmobility.co.uk/mobility-news/article/what-are-the-health-benefits-of-reading-in-older-age