Wellbeing

Social Prescribing

The Library’s Volunteering Unit collaborates with a number of agencies that support vulnerable or isolated people and refer volunteers to us. When working with people who are referred to us we are able to discuss the specific needs and expectations of each potential volunteer, trying to identify tasks that match their interests. We also support them as far as we can to overcome obstacles in terms of confidence and skills, and meet them regularly to discuss satisfaction and progress in carrying out a task or project.

This year the agencies have included Workways Plus, Hywel Dda Board’s Mental Health Team, Barod Cymru, Cyfle Cymru, Agoriad Cyf, Ceredigon County Council, The Red Cross, Shaw Trust and AgeCymru. We have also received a number of individuals who self-refer to volunteer with us because they lack confidence, or are lonely and want to expand their social horizons.

Wellbeing in the workplace

During the reporting year we continued with our bilingual General Wellbeing sessions for staff, presented by Cana Consulting.

The COVID-19 period proved that the Library could adapt to new working practices. Subsequently, the Hybrid Working Policy was implemented for individuals who work in roles that were suitable. To support this, staff were offered training organised by the Welsh Unions Learning Fund which dealt with topics such as mental health, mindfulness, and effective remote working.

Welsh learners

At the National Eisteddfod of Wales Ceredigion 2022, Mina Barnden, our Audio-visual Digital Curation Officer received the Welsh Learner in the Workplace award for her dedication to learning the language and success in her exams. Mina was inspired to learn Welsh when she came to work at the Library.

Developing future management staff

As part of its staff development plan, the Library held courses staff in order foster excellence in all areas of responsibility and to supply the Library’s services. Here members of the staff are seen receiving their certificates after successfully gaining the ILM Level 4 / Level 5 qualification in Leadership and Management. This ensures that staff have the appropriate skills in order to deliver the Library's services effectively.