Time to rhyme for World Poetry Day at Glastonbury Court and Davers Court

Home news

Mar 09, 2018

Glastonbury Court and Davers Court are inviting the local community to join residents in celebrating World Poetry Day on Wednesday 21 March.

World Poetry Day is an annual celebration of rhythmic literature and promotes the reading, writing, publishing and teaching of poetry throughout the world. This year, the teams at Glastonbury Court and Davers Court will open their doors for a day of word play and rhyming fun.

Residents at the care homes will be celebrating the day by reading a number of their favourite poems and rhymes aloud. In preparation for the event, Davers Court residents have been writing their own poems, and working with local schools on an intergenerational poetry project. At the event, the residents will be joined by local poet, Alan Askew, who will be sharing some of his favourite rhymes.

Residents at Glastonbury Court will be joined by poet laureate, Alan Jones, for an afternoon of poems and conversations with the residents.

At both homes, residents are being encouraged to put pen to paper to create their own short verses and poems to enter into Care UK’s poetry competition, which is being run nationwide to mark World Poetry Day.

Home manager, Sharlene Van Tonder, explained why Glastonbury Court is taking part in World Poetry Day: “World Poetry Day provides a fantastic opportunity for residents here at Glastonbury Court to share their favourite poems, which has many therapeutic be

nefits, particularly for those living with dementia.”

Wendy Harvey, home manager at Davers Court added: “For many residents, it can evoke fond memories and emotions from their younger years. Whether reading, writing or listening to poetry, the calming effect that these activities have can ease anxiety and can help combat loneliness, whilst also bringing residents together through a common cause.”

“We are looking forward to welcoming local poet, Alan Askew, and the local community for what we are sure will be a fantastic day of poetry.”