.png)
Happiness, healing and human connection through the shared reading of great stories.
Welcome to Life, the Universe & Stories...
We are a not-for-profit organisation that is pioneering the social application of bibliotherapy in Australia to help reduce social isolation, improve mental health and strengthen our communities. Using the established theory and techniques of 'Shared Reading' we run unique social groups and programs that bring people together to read and share great stories in a way that helps them find meaning and joy in life, regardless of their circumstance.
We believe in the power of storytelling to connect us all and to enrich the human spirit.
“After a session, I always feel more connected, alert and alive. All I have to do is open up to the nourishmentment coming in.”
​
Freda, Group Participant
Latest News
What We Do
Our Groups
Life, the Universe & Stories groups are a different kind of social group. They are relaxed social get-togethers that centre around the reading, reflection and discussion of great short stories and poetry. Our groups are run by trained facilitators both in-person and online. Our groups are an enjoyable way to relax, connect with others, and do something good for your mental health.
Everyone is welcome, no matter what your level of interest in reading. Just come along, feel free to read and chat, or just sit back and listen.
Who knows... you might even discover the meaning of life!
Our Programs
Our Life, the Universe & Stories social programs are a series of group or individual sessions aimed at improving quality of life of people living in aged care, residential homes and other institutions by enhancing their social, mental and emotional wellbeing. Our programs are also valuable for people with disability, job readiness programs, rehabiliation support, as well as migrant and culturally and linguistically diverse communities and anyone who just needs a little extra support for their mental health and wellbeing.
​
As with our groups, our therapeutic programs centre around the reading, reflection and discussion of great short stories over a series of weeks or on an ongoing basis. The experience is social, enjoyable, meaningful and uplifting.
Our Training
We are passionate about sharing the benefits of what we do with as many people as possible, so we offer a training program for individuals, teams and therapists in the community and a range of different organisations.
Our training is based on the established techniques and practices of Shared Reading and equips participants with the basic skills needed to facilitate a group. We then assist trainees to establish groups and develop their practice in their organisation or community.
​
The Benefits of Shared Reading
Every day we see how our groups and programs are helping people. People say the groups make sthem feel happier, more confident and more fulfilled. Some people even tell us that being part of our groups has changed their lives.
The practice of Shared Reading is well established in the UK where ongoing research has found 92 % of participants said they looked forward to the group as an important event in their week, and other reported benefits of participating included...
Connection
People feel more connected to others.
In the UK research 84% of people said they made new friends within groups.
Wellbeing
People experience improved wellbeing.
93% of particiapnts said the reading sessions make them feel better.
Purpose & Growth
People have a greater sense of purpose. 82% said that hearing other people’s views helps them think differently about things.
Join Our Mailing List
Join our mailing list to receive updates on groups, programs and events as well as interesting articles on literature, poetry and wellbeing.
We'd love to hear from you.
If you would like to know more about our groups, programs or training, or have something else you'd like to share or discuss, please get in touch via this online form or...
​
Contact: Christopher Smith
Email: chris@sharedreadingnsw.com
Phone: 0468 346 834
​
We are based in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales, Australia.