Libraries in Thanet are part of a major new initiative to create volunteering opportunities and support those experiencing loneliness.
An £85,000 grant will allow Thanet libraries to run a range of activities and events over the course of the next year. Examples of the activities include walking and gardening for wellbeing, children’s craft activities, menopause cafes, family learning support events and social prescribing.
The Know Your Neighbourhood project is a national initiative aiming to widen participation in volunteering and tackle loneliness in 27 disadvantaged areas across England. Thanet libraries have received a share of £2.5 million of the £30 million fund other recipients include museums, arts organisations and charities.
A key focus of the Know Your Neighbourhood Fund will be to generate evidence on how people in disadvantaged areas can best be supported to volunteer and improve their social connections.
KCC’s Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, Clair Bell, said: “Our libraries are warm, welcoming places that anyone can access. They are ideal locations to deliver activities that bring people and communities together, improve wellbeing and offer a real sense of enjoyment.
“I would encourage anyone to give their local library a visit and if interested in learning more about our offers to speak to a member of our team in Thanet to find out more about how they can take part and even volunteer.”
