Short stories and parliament

A new short story entitled 'But', by Anne Donovan, has recently been co-published by Artlink and Scottish Book Trust - the national agency for readers and writers. 'But' highlights the issues faced by those who care for individuals with disabilities and was launched to MSPs during a reception at the Scottish Parliament.

 

Artlink, an Edinburgh arts organisation working within marginalised communities, commissioned Anne to write the story.  It is a fictional snapshot of a carer’s life focusing on the issues, feelings, difficulties and frustrations faced by those who care for individuals with learning difficulties. It is a thought-provoking glimpse of 'the forgotten ones' – the strong but tired legion of overstretched carers for whom caring is a round-the-clock, often lifelong responsibility.  The information for 'But' came from time Anne spent with carers of people with learning disabilities over a period of two months. Through interactions with these people, she gained an insight into the lives of those who care.

Anne Donovan has dedicated 'But' to carers everywhere and copies will be distributed to all MSPs, social work departments and policy makers in the Scottish Executive. The story is also available to download from the Scottish Book Trust website.

Some comments on 'But': 'This story highlights how ‘the professionals’ won’t listen to us; they think we are being over protective. We have a knowledge they are not prepared to learn from. Perhaps this story will make them think differently' – mother 'This is more than an essay. It is, in a way, a shared experience' – care worker 'The article by Anne Donovan is a true reflection of how many of our parents feel' – head teacher

Anne Donovan also wrote the novel Buddha Da and the short story collection Hieroglyphics, both published by Canongate. Buddha Da was shortlisted for the Orange Prize, the Whitbread First Novel Award and the Scottish Book of the Year Award. It received a Scottish Arts Council Award and won Le Prince Maurice Award in Mauritius in 2004. Anne had also written for radio and the stage, and has been working on the screenplay for the film of Buddha Da.