For many of us reading is an escape – look into another world, taking us out of our own. That is why Queen Camilla’s Reading Room is teaming up with a charity supporting domestic abuse survivors, in order to help them recover after the ordeal of their experiences.
, which provides support services for adults and children who have experienced domestic violence in England, is working with The Queen’s Reading Room to use reading on their healing journey.
The plan is to make book donations and undertake grassroots work together to support those affected by the abuse, coercive control and sexual violence.
Camilla has been an advocate for domestic abuse survivors for many years and although The Elm Foundation is not one of her official patronages, this will have been approved by The Queen herself.
During the pandemic, Camilla began sharing lists of books she had enjoyed reading to help others in lockdown, which turned into The Queen’s Reading Room in 2023; it was founded as a charity to promote the value of reading and help people connect with literature.
Camilla is an avid reader, literacy promoter, as well as a champion of women’s safety. Her passion for these two subjects will give this partnership even more significance.
The CEO of the Queen’s Reading Room, Vicki Perrin said: ‘One of the key things the Elm Foundation is interested in is how therapeutic activities, like reading and being part of reading groups, can help individuals rebuild their lives.
‘They have individuals in their staff and in their trustees who have used reading to move forward in life after truly horrible experiences of domestic violence, and are themselves now inspired to volunteer in the organisation to run book clubs.’
Queen Camilla and works to celebrate and promote the power and benefits of reading in the UK and further afield.
Jennifer Calverley, CEO of The Elm Foundation commented: ‘We see everyday how trauma can isolate people who have been affected by domestic abuse. Reading, with its ability to transport, and connect with others, offers a gentle but profound way to begin rebuilding and regaining confidence’.
The Elm foundation is part of Women’s Aid and offers support across the community, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, gender identity and immigration status. This includes refuge and
They cover areas in Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire, Bolsover and part of Amber Valley. Anyone outside of those areas can access refuge accommodation, the Derbyshire DA helpline, training and corporate services. Their core aims are to provide shelter, to protect and build strength which is represented by an Elm tree as their logo.
Both CEOs of the charities have shown their admiration for being brought together. Ms Calverley added: ‘Combining two causes, so close to the heart, sends a powerful message that healing is multifaceted and that compassion can be woven through every aspect of support’.
Ms Perrin also said: ‘To be able to bring these two important causes together is the sort of thing that only Her Majesty can do.’
The partnership between these two organisations will be announced formally at the third Queen’s Reading Room Festival at Chatsworth House in a few weeks (19-20 September).
