Community Connections
Tackling care home isolation by offering engaging digital activities, supported reading groups and memory-sharing sessions for elderly residents.
The Local Challenge
Blackburn with Darwen is a vibrant, diverse unitary council in the north-west of England. Ranked 14th in the UK’s 2021 Index of Multiple Deprivation, the area faces multiple challenges in education, employment, living standards, health and well–being. With an ageing population and reduced funding for activities, isolation is on the rise. The library’s home service is a lifeline for vulnerable residents, including those living in care homes. However, innovative digital and remote support is urgently needed to boost mental health and well–being for both residents and staff of care homes.
The Initiative
Community Connections uses a proven model across libraries to expand into care homes – tackling isolation by offering engaging digital activities, supported reading groups and memory-sharing sessions for elderly residents. Loanable packs include sensory items and reminiscence cues while staff events showcase resources and encourage network building. Inclusive digital equipment loans cater to diverse needs, while respite vouchers are available for carers and coordinators, enhancing community inclusion. Free library events with funded transport offer residents’ outings. The library supports carers and families too – helping to boost social cohesion and well-being across the community.
What’s Next?
The initiative aims to combat isolation and loneliness by promoting cross-cultural learning and educating participants to be digitally included and less vulnerable online. Focusing on older populations affected by Covid-19 and local Asian communities who are traditionally hesitant to engage, the goal is to improve mental well-being in care homes and among individuals living alone or with carers. Strengthening partnerships with local services, the library acts as a pivotal outreach educator, bridging gaps in social care and helping to create community connections.
This is an ongoing Europe Challenge project that will be completed in autumn 2024. Stay tuned for more updates and contact theeuropechallenge@culturalfoundation.eu if you have any questions or want to be connected with the team behind the project.
