David Carney-Haworth OBEDavid Carney-Haworth OBE is a retired police sergeant and is the co-creator of Silver Stories and the charity Operation Encompass.
David retired after serving 30 years in two police forces and now spends his time voluntarily running both charities with his wife, Elisabeth.
Elisabeth Carney-Haworth OBEElisabeth Carney-Haworth OBE is a retired Head Teacher and is the co-creator of Silver Stories and the charity Operation Encompass.
Elisabeth retired after serving children and education in a variety of roles for over 42 years. She now spends her time voluntarily running both charities with her husband, David.
Dame Esther Rantzen, DBE. RIP (1940-2026).Internationally renowned TV celebrity and journalist, Dame Esther Rantzen DBE is equally recognised for her creation of two charities, Childline and Silverline.
Esther is also a Patron for Operation Encompass.
Esther has been aware of Silver Stories since she first saw it in practice in the school where it was created. She encouraged David and Elisabeth ( the creators of Silver Stories) to launch Silver Stories as a charity and was keen to be a trustee.
She says of Silver Stories…
“Children and older people are natural partners, and Silver Readers take great pride in the joy they give when they read to their Silver Listeners. A simple idea, but like so many simple ideas, incredibly effective at creating links between the generations, gently fostering a love of reading, and spreading happiness. “
Having enjoyed a successful career in education I wish to continue working, on a part time basis to enhance and enjoy my retirement. My roles presently include customer facing work as well as continuing to use my hobby experience.
It is my privilege to be involved in the work of two charities: Operation Encompass- which supports children who have experience domestic abuse. And, Silver Stories- which develops intergenerational links between senior citizens and young readers
Rachel Ewan-CorriganStudent at the University of Reading
Neuroscience PhD student
Rachel is a PhD student, studying Neuroscience, at the University of Reading. Rachel’s current research aims to examine the neurocognitive mechanisms of action underpinning various symptoms of Dementia and in turn, developing tailored interventions to help support. Rachel provides valuable insight into the relationship between storytelling and reminiscing as a form of supportive intervention. Rachel is passionate about supporting community projects and has a keen interest in ways to help people’s mental health and wellbeing across the lifespan.
“I have been inspired by the wonderful work of Silver Stories and how it provides a rare and valuable opportunity for the younger and older generations to interact with one another enabling far reaching benefits emotionally, physically and cognitively. I hope that everyone has an opportunity to be involved; I believe Silver Stories to be so special and I am honoured, excited and grateful to be a part of this amazing charity.” – Rachel Ewan-Corrigan
Trustee
I have been a Silver Stories coordinator since 2021, starting in a junior school and now in a secondary school. I have seen first-hand how wonderful this initiative is and I’m proud and feel very privileged to be a trustee of Silver Stories.
Chair of Trustees
I was born and raised in Plymouth and joined the Royal Navy at the age of 17, serving for eight years during the closing years of the Cold War.
After leaving the Navy, I began a long career in policing, joining the police service as civilian support staff in 1996 and completing 27 years of service. I now run my own alcohol licensing consultancy as a company director, supporting businesses as they navigate licensing regulations.
I’ve been married to my wife for 37 years and together we have raised two daughters. I am honoured to serve as Chair of Trustees for Silver Stories.
Silver Stories Amabassador
I started as a Silver Reader in 2023 when I was eight years old. At first I read shorter stories like The Gruffalo and The Twits. As I became more confident, I moved on to longer books like the Paddington Bear stories and the Famous Five adventures written by Enid Blyton. Reading to my Silver Listener has really helped my reading improve.
Being a Silver Reader has helped me with my schoolwork, I’ve built a lovely friendship with my Silver Listener. I practise my reading and I have grown in confidence, and my Silver Listener enjoys hearing the stories and helping me along the way.
I play sports for local clubs and I’m both a Girl Guide and a Scout. I’m also the Head Girl at my primary school. I have earned five Blue Peter badges, including my favourite the Reading Badge designed by Quentin Blake, whose drawings lots of people will recognise from the books by Roald Dahl.
Because of my dedication to Silver Stories, I was invited to a special ceremony in Greater Manchester where I received the High Sheriff Award in 2025.
I am very proud to be a Silver Stories Ambassador. I love reading and I always look forward to my Monday evening catch-up with my Silver friend. 📚
Patricia (aged 89 years)Silver Stories Amabassador
We are delighted to welcome Patricia as a Silver Stories Ambassador.
Patricia has been a Silver Listener since 2022 and now has an incredible 11 Silver Readers who read to her each week.
Her Silver Readers have become part of her extended family, with the latest addition joining her all the way from Tucson, Arizona, USA!
Patricia is a wonderful example of the friendships and special relationships that Silver Stories creates, bringing generations together through the simple joy of reading.
Patricia says “I love Silver Stories it really makes me really happy”.