Published 1st February 2022 by

Norfolk Libraries have a range of support for people who care for a family member or friend.

Friendly staff are on hand to support you with access to reading, information, services, and social activities.

Reading

The Norfolk Libraries catalogue contains a health and wellbeing section highlighting collections of books that can support people in their caring role.

There are books in other formats including large print, audio and eBooks. Staff can also support people with visual impairment to access reading.

There is free access to newspapers, magazines, eBooks, and audiobooks, allowing for great reading opportunities at no cost. Find out what is available here.

You can also borrow themed reminiscence kits containing objects and books, along with guidance around how to use them.

Information

Library staff can offer you direct support with issues including housing, benefits, debt and mental health. They can make a referral through the Norfolk Community Advice Network (NCAN) to request a relevant organisation such as Age Uk, Citizen’s Advice or Mind, to make direct contact with you.

Library staff also use the online Norfolk Community Directory to help you search for local support groups and day care services.

There are also volunteers and Digital Health Hub sessions to help you access services that are only available online, such blue badge requests and NHS services.

Social activities

There are regular social groups in Norfolk libraries, where you might choose to come along with the person you care for or on your own. The groups range from wellbeing sessions to art groups.

For example, the Millennium Library in Norwich hosts a regular “Time Traveller’s” reminiscence group and the Gaywood Library holds a weekly bereavement group, the “Thursday Club”.

Click here to find out what’s on in Norfolk Libraries.  

Unable to get to the library?

Norfolk Libraries have several events and groups that take place online, including author events, book clubs, cuppa and chat and singing sessions.

Young carers

Norfolk Libraries are a safe and welcoming space for young carers who wish to learn, connect, and discover new things to do. If you are unable to get to the library because of your caring responsibilities or for any other reason, there are online reading and story writing groups.

To find out more about Norfolk Libraries support for carers talk to a member of library staff or call the Information, Advice and Guidance team on 01603 774777.

All Norfolk library buildings are wheelchair accessible.