Exeter dementia campaigner’s book features in national collection

Charity campaigner and author Gina Awad has been selected as one of just twenty UK authors to appear in a new, specialist literary collection.

Gina, the leading light behind Exeter Dementia Action Alliance, published her first book called United in 2022 with popular cartoonist, the late Tony Husband.

It not only tackled the serious issue of dementia and its impact on families in a humorous and approachable way but also helped people to navigate their way through what is often a journey fraught with complications.

And United has now been included in a book collection called Reading Well for dementia which was launched at the House of Commons and provides an up-to-date resource that reflects national clinical guidelines, best practice, advice and support. 

It comprises 20 titles in England and 21 in Wales, which have been carefully selected and endorsed by health experts, charities and people affected by dementia.

The Reading Well organisation helps people understand and manage their health and wellbeing using helpful reading.

All books are recommended by health experts, as well as people with lived experience of the conditions and topics covered and their relatives and carers. 

Gina said: “I was overjoyed to hear I was selected as a featured author in this fabulous scheme particularly knowing all titles have been reviewed by people directly affected by dementia, as well as professionals.” 

The book collection launches, in partnership with public libraries, during Dementia Action Week (13-19 May 2024).  

Available to borrow for free from public libraries in England and Wales, the scheme aims to improve lives through the power of reading.

Understanding and knowledge of dementia via high-quality, book-based information and advice can play an important role in supporting people affected by dementia, particularly in the context where one in two will be affected by dementia in their lifetime.

Karen Napier, CEO of The Reading Agency said: “The launch, during Dementia Action Week, of our new book collection, is a significant new development of The Reading Agency’s health and wellbeing offer.

“Written specifically for those living with dementia, their carers and loved ones of all ages, we believe that this unique, new, quality-assured book-based resource available from public libraries could play an important role in supporting the wider community affected by dementia.”

Isobel Hunter MBE, CEO of Libraries Connected added: “As libraries continue to increase their important role supporting dementia in communities, Reading Well for dementia is one of the many initiatives of the Public Library Universal Health and

“Wellbeing Offer, a national strategy that promotes the role that libraries can play in promoting the health and wellbeing of local communities. Libraries provide access to books and also contribute positively to inclusivity, supporting wellbeing and strengthening community cohesion.”

Co-production partner Innovations in Dementia Community Interest Company has ensured the views of people affected by dementia informed all aspects of developing this book collection.

Keith Oliver, from the Innovations in Dementia, said: “Reading other people's lived experience, both as a family carer and as a person with dementia, does help you to know that you're not alone.

“There's also the reassurance that everyone’s experience is different. So, you learn about similarities from these books, but also you draw some strength from the fact that you're different."

Gina visited Exeter, Exmouth and Sidmouth libraries to chat with them about her book and the importance of this compelling collection.

The full Reading Well for dementia list is available now at libraries across England and Wales, with titles also accessible as e-books and audiobooks. For more information, visit www.readingagency.org.uk.

You can find the book list here.