Reading Well for Health and Wellbeing in Wales

Reading Well for dementia was launched in Wales in 2018 as part of the new Dementia Action Plan for Wales. The books provide information and advice for people living with dementia, support for living well, advice for relatives and carers, as well as fiction, memoir and photographic books used in reminiscence therapy. They are endorsed by health professionals and can all be found in the local library.

Reading Well for mental health was launched in Wales in 2019. It provides helpful information and support for managing common mental health conditions, or dealing with difficult feelings and experiences. Some books include personal stories from people who are living with or caring for someone with mental health needs. The books have been recommended by mental health professionals and people with experience of the conditions covered. 

Reading Well Books for children was launched in Wales on World Mental Health Day 2020, by The Reading Agency and public libraries. The booklist responds to the increasing demand for expert-endorsed information and advice to support children to understand and manage their mental health and wellbeing, with book collections and supporting resources made available in both English and Welsh.

The scheme recommends reading to help children understand their feelings and cope with tough times. The books have been chosen by children, carers, health experts and librarians.

The new Reading Well for teens booklist was launched in England and Wales on 10th October 2022 on World Mental Health Day. Reading Well for teens supports the mental health and wellbeing of teenagers, providing helpful information, advice and support to help them better understand their feelings, handle difficult experiences and boost confidence.

The booklist is targeted at young people aged 13-18 and includes a range of reading levels and formats to support less confident readers and encourage engagement. Some of the recommended books suggest useful self-help techniques; there are also personal stories, graphic formats, and fiction. Alongside the books are a selection of quality assured age-appropriate digital resources. The books have been chosen by young people, leading health professionals and library staff.

Reading Well for families recommends reading to support parents and carers to look after their wellbeing in pregnancy and the early years (from conception to aged two). The scheme is aimed at adults and includes a range of recommended books and supporting digital resources. Some of the recommended books provide information and advice; there are also personal stories, illustrated books and poetry.