ABSTRACT
There are some circumstances in which memory sharing in groups is not appropriate for the individual, or where one-to-one work is felt to be more beneficial to them. In these circumstances, rather than exclude the person from exploring their memories, individual life story work can be undertaken. This chapter explores what life story work involves and provides ideas on topics to use and ways of approaching the activity. In addition, comparisons are drawn with person-centred planning, and the suggestion is made that memory sharing and life story work are an effective means of discovering the wishes and feelings of individuals. While life story books are the most commonly used approach to individual life story work, memory boards and memory boxes can be equally effective. General memory boxes are used in group work. It is important to emphasise that while there is a crossover between oral history and life story work, they are different because of the differences in their aims.
