Health and wellbeing
Reading and Writing for Wellbeing Groups
Reading and Writing for Wellbeing groups spark connection through reading, writing and guided discussion. Groups are led by our Healthy Reading Bibliotherapist, a unique role within Scotland. The service is underpinned by professional experience in mental health nursing and supported by regular supervision from a senior social worker, ensuring safe, reflective and high-standard practice.
Sessions are free and you don't need writing experience.
The groups are particularly useful for people living with long term health challenges and are open to all adults.
Many people are part of the groups for some time - with some participants attending for several years. One group has self-published a collection of their work, available via Midlothian Libraries’ BorrowBox platform: Oor Poyums.
The groups
- Reading Aloud Groups - use poetry, short stories and book extracts to spark discussion and support reflection.
- Writing for Wellbeing Groups - offered both fortnightly and as six-week blocks three times per year.
- Healthy Reading Book Club - themed reading programmes (e.g. stress, anxiety and worry). You can browse from a curated book collection, take one or more titles home to read, and return to discuss reflections, encouraging open conversation and peer support.
Where and when
Reading Aloud Group
Penicuik Library
2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month
1:30pm – 3:00pm
Writing for Wellbeing
Dalkeith Arts Centre
1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month
11:00am – 12:30pm
Carers Group
Gorebridge Library
1st Monday of each month
2:00pm – 3:30pm
Contact
Bibliotherapy@midlothian.gov.uk
07771 345 294