“The hospice book club helps us cope.”
Since its beginnings in 2024 our outpatient book club has gone from strength to strength. Participants share their love of books while building friendships and supporting one another.
Run with help of Stafford Library, who provide a new set of books each month, the club continues to thrive. The library’s generous support makes a real difference to the wellbeing of everyone involved.
The book club is part of a range of tailored activities on offer to those receiving care at the hospice’s Therapy & Wellbeing Centre.
The centre runs a range of clinics and wellbeing sessions to help people living with incurable illness manage symptoms and live a better quality of life.
More than a shared love of reading the book club is an opportunity for people to connect and find emotional support. Those involved feel part of a caring community where they can open up about how they’re feeling.
Friendship and a safe space
Anne Cherriman, who runs the club, told us: “Our group is so welcoming, we all get on very well, and we’ve read some amazing books. We choose what to read together, then meet to chat about favourite characters, thoughts and interpretations. There’s no pressure to finish the book; we just enjoy the experience.
“It’s a safe space where we can meet, enjoy reading, but also talk openly with others in a similar situation to ourselves.”
Fellow book club attendee Josie continued: “There’s a real sense of community and friendship. I’ve really got a lot out of meeting others on the same journey as me. I find it a great support.
“We discuss the books, but we also share our own stories, build friendships and support each other.
Shared experiences
Pene, another group member, added: “The hospice book club gives me something to look forward to. It’s not just about reading, we talk, laugh and share experiences and memories.”
“At Christmas, we held our weekly session at The Swan Hotel in Stafford and had lunch there, it was lovely.”
Our expert team can support you from day one of diagnosis to live well and more independently.
