North Lincolnshire libraries

North Lincolnshire Library service has initially identified two groups of people whom we felt would benefit from the additional support offered by the project.

Firstly, volunteers from library staffing who are already experienced in engagement, and enthusiastic about discussing reading, have been ‘matched’ with existing Home Library Service clients. We felt that this client group, who are largely housebound, would be feeling particularly isolated at a time when personal contact has been kept to a minimum. The volunteers contact the clients for regular ‘reading chat’ using the telephone befriending model.

The second client group is a targeted Anxiety Forum made up Key Stage Two children and their parents and carers. A number of the families have been assessed as suitable for telephone befriending and have already been receiving calls from our staff or volunteers.

The next stage of our project will involve online activities such as ‘laughter yoga’ and author ‘visits’ for the Anxiety Forum, and an iPad loan scheme to roll out extended digital access to all client groups.