“After Jane’s sessions residents were relaxed and animated, expressing how much they enjoyed the stories and the characters in the stories a feeling which would carry over to the next day and for some over the course of the week, a happy hangover.” – (Marion Drurie, Activities Co-ordinator – Cluny Lodge Care Home)

My storytelling for older people involves working with the Scottish Storytelling Centre, the National Library of Scotland Socials and in a variety of community and care home settings. I’m a member of ElderWise, storytellers who specialise in reminiscence and storytelling with older people.

My sessions with older audiences involve a mix of stories, songs and reminiscences and often gentle craft activity. Sessions engage with a variety of cultural and natural heritage themes, seasonal festivals, holidays, traditions and celebrations. Encouraging participants to:

• Socialise and share memories
• Explore their creativity
• Engage in meaningful activity
• share their own personalities, character and stories
• Increase confidence, connection with each other and sense of self-worth

Each features a blend of traditional stories, popular songs, rhymes and sensory stimulation through visual props, scents or tactile objects. Lifting spirits, inspiring discussion and meaningful human connection where gems of memory reveal themselves.

Kist O’ Memories

A bespoke treasure chest with images & props to accompany stories & songs shared

“So many of our members remarked on how your stories stirred up nice memories of being read to when they were young and how you made them connect and live with each story you told”  (Leanne McNeill, Manager – Lochend Neighbourhood Centre)