Swindon Libraries launches new Children’s Mental Health book list

A special book list has been drawn up to help children with their mental health and wellbeing, and the books are now available at libraries across Swindon.

Published: Tuesday, 18th February 2020

The Reading Well for Children scheme allows youngsters to manage their health and wellbeing through the magical pastime of reading. 

It uses reading to help children understand their feelings and worries and cope with tough times.

The books have been selected by leading health organisations such as NHS England and the Royal College of GPs.

The booklist is targeted at children in Key Stage 2 (aged 7-11) and includes a wide range of reading levels to support less confident readers, and to encourage children to read together with their siblings and carers.

Councillor Keith Williams, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for libraries, said: “Reading Well is a brilliant scheme that uses the power of reading to improve children’s health and wellbeing.

“I am thrilled that Swindon’s libraries are offering this book list and I would encourage parents to take full advantage of it and feed their children’s imagination in the way only a good book can.”

Some of the titles on the book list include ‘What's Going on Inside my Head?’ by Molly Potter, ‘Healthy for Life: Self-esteem and Mental Health’ by Anna Claybourne, and Mindful Me: Exploring Emotions by Paul Christelis.

The scheme has also been supported by the Council’s Public Health team.

Cllr Brian Ford, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said: “We know that books can be very helpful in getting people to understand their own mental health and by acting as important forms of self-help.

“We want to make sure this literary project is available for as many children as possible and I am delighted to see it rolled out across Swindon.”

There are additional Reading Well book lists for adults and young people on mental health, long term conditions and dementia. To find out more, ask in your library, or visit www.reading-well.org.uk.

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