Words for Wellbeing: Bo’ness Library

Libraries in Falkirk are holding Words for Wellbeing groups every two weeks, with each lasting around one hour. The groups currently take place at:

• Bonnybridge Library (with the next session on Friday 29^th April, 3:30pm – 4:30pm)
• Bo’ness Library (with the next session on Saturday 30^th April, 1:30pm – 2:30pm)
• Grangemouth Library (with the first session on Tuesday 10^th May, 6pm – 7pm)
• Denny Library
• Larbert Library
• Meadowbank Library

Additional groups will be starting in the following libraries soon, with dates and times to be confirmed:

• Falkirk Library
• Slamannan Library

The groups are intended to support mental health and wellbeing by encouraging people to get out of the house and enabling them to socialise in a safe space. The groups are open to anyone and may be of benefit to those feeling isolated after events of the last couple of years. People will also have the option of joining the library, which will give them access to books on health and wellbeing.

The groups will be run by trained and supportive library staff members.

The groups differ from traditional book groups in that no “homework” or booking is required; people can simply attend on the day. The group facilitator will read a short piece of fiction, non-fiction, poetry or song lyrics and then participants can discuss how they feel about it, if they wish.

These discussions are conversation starters and there is no pressure for anyone to contribute, but the hope is that, gradually, people will feel comfortable discussing the reading, talking about how it made them feel or even sharing prose or poetry they like. It is intended that each group will involve up to 12 people and there will be tea, coffee and biscuits available. The groups are free as are the refreshments.

For further information, or to register interest, please contact your local library (contact details listed at the bottom of the linked page), or contact Gavin Johnstone by email: gavin.johnstone@falkirk.gov.uk