Werrington Community Library & Wellbeing Centre

Overview

The Werrington Community Library & Wellbeing Centre is a UK nonprofit organisation that serves as both a library and a community resource. It is managed by community volunteers and aims to provide a variety of services to address social isolation, promote health, and enhance community well-being. The organisation holds the charity number 1186406.

Activities and Services

The centre offers a range of activities and services that cater to different segments of the community. These include:

• Regular Library Services: The library maintains a standard collection of books and media, providing access to literacy resources for the local population.
• Home Reader Scheme: This initiative delivers books to housebound residents, ensuring that everyone has access to reading materials regardless of mobility.
• Wellbeing Centre: This unique aspect of the organisation focuses on enhancing the health and well-being of older residents. It hosts over 50 sessions per month, encompassing services such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), child health and development sessions, and diabetes prevention programs.
• Community Events: The centre organises various events and activities that help foster a sense of community. These events are designed to combat loneliness and social isolation by bringing people together.
• Meeting Rooms: A large meeting room is available for hire, accommodating up to 25 people. This space supports local meetings, workshops, and gatherings.
• Access to Technology: The centre provides access to free internet and quiet spaces for reading and study, making it a resourceful hub for both leisure and educational activities.

Mission and Achievements

The Werrington Community Library & Wellbeing Centre has been praised for its innovative approach to combining library services with community health initiatives. According to Karen Bradley MP, who officially opened the library, the centre has exceeded expectations by fostering a strong sense of community. The Wellbeing Centre, believed to be the first of its kind linked to a library in the UK, plays a significant role in this accomplishment.

Operations

The library operates on specific days: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This schedule allows community members to access the library's resources and services during convenient hours.

The library's success is a testament to the dedication of the Werrington Community Volunteers Group, which has managed to establish a thriving community hub that supports both the educational and health needs of local residents.

[1] https://werringtoncommunitylibrary.org.uk [2] https://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/Libraries/branchlibraries/WerringtonLibrary/WerringtonLibrary.aspx [3] https://communitylibrariesnetwork.org/case-study/werrington-community-managed-library-wellbeing-centre/ [4] https://werringtoncommunitylibrary.org.uk/about/ [5] https://haypeterborough.co.uk/activities/werrington-library/