This week saw the launch of the Reading for Wellbeing initiative, a new project supported by VONNE that aims to use books to boost health.
Initiated and part-funded by bestselling author Ann Cleeves, the project is being piloted across the North East region. It will see the appointment of nine Community Reading Workers who will support access to stories and reading, including audio books, to help improve the health and wellbeing of those in need of support.
Social Prescribing Link Workers based at GP practices, as well as other health and social care professionals, will refer people who may benefit from reading, access to stories or social support. This may include those experiencing anxiety, stress, chronic pain, depression or other conditions, as well as those who are socially isolated. They can also refer children, young people and whole families.
The Community Reading Workers will offer a holistic and personalised approach to empower people to take steps to improve their health and wellbeing. This could include spaces and places for reading, emotional support and other tools to help mental and physical wellbeing.
Speaking about the initiative, Ann Cleeves said: “Over the years, I’ve seen how understanding and confidence grows when people are encouraged to explore their experiences through story. It gives a fresh perspective. A distance. Anger and resentment can dissipate. And because we’re sharing a bit of ourselves when we’re talking about books, friendships develop… I am absolutely thrilled that this project is now officially up and running across the North East and can’t wait to see how much difference it makes.”
Each local authority area has contributed its own funds to the project, and the initiative is supported by a range of other partners, including VONNE.
Jane Hartley, Health and Wellbeing Associate at VONNE, said: “We are proud to be involved in supporting this project regionally and strengthening links with local social prescribing networks and voluntary and community sector partners. It is great that Ann has led the way in funding this grassroots community-based approach to helping people experience the positive influence of books and reading on their wellbeing.”
The project is being evaluated by the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) North East and North Cumbria (NENC), and it is hoped early findings from the evaluation will support future investment and potential expansion.
To find out more about the Reading for Wellbeing project and its evaluation, visit the ARC NENC website.