Launch Of Reading For Wellness Initiative In West Clare

Launch Of Reading For Wellness Initiative In West Clare

From Clare FM by Clare FM

April 27, 2026 · 7 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the launch of the Reading for Wellness initiative in West Clare, aimed at improving mental health through shared reading.

Now, a new initiative launching in West Clare is shining a light on something simple, but powerful—the idea that reading can support our mental health and overall wellbeing. Reading for Wellness is a programme developed with the support of Clare County Council, Clare Libraries and the Clare Older People’s Council, and it aims to help tackle loneliness, anxiety and social isolation through shared reading and connection. The initiative has its roots in a project created by bestselling author Ann Cleeves, and it’s now being brought to life here in Clare with a special launch event in Kilkee later this month. To tell us more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Shanelle Warring, Clare Age Friendly Programme Manager and Frances Pender, Healthy Ireland at your library Co-Ordinator from Kilrush Library Image © Clare County Council via Facebook

People in this episode

Host: Alan Morrissey

Guests: Shanelle Warring, Frances Pender

Topics covered

  • mental health
  • reading
  • wellbeing
  • loneliness
  • anxiety
  • social isolation
  • community initiative

Keywords

  • Reading for Wellness
  • mental health
  • West Clare
  • community
  • loneliness
  • anxiety
  • social isolation
  • Clare Libraries
  • Clare County Council

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Clare County Council, Clare Libraries, Clare Older People’s Council, Healthy Ireland at your library

Books & works: Reading for Wellness

Places: West Clare, Kilkee

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