Libraries Connected is seeking a research specialist to help us tell the story of what libraries can do for older people in supporting mental health and wellbeing, through robustly measured and evidenced impact research.
The project is developed and funded by the libraries in the South East of England, with some support from TCR (The Combined Regions). 

The proposed research builds on 'Libraries for Living, and for Living Better', as published by University of East Anglia, extending their focus from Children’s Literacy, Digital Inclusion and Health and Wellbeing by exploring two additional areas.

Older people

The impact of providing activities, events and services for older people in libraries, especially cohorts not yet accessing adult social care and where library provision can be evidenced to have diverted or delayed demand for more costly health or social care services. The cost saving, or avoidance, should be evidenced through research and articulated in the final report.

Mental Health/positive wellbeing support for all ages

The impact of providing activities, events and services for people in need of mental health support, especially cohorts not yet accessing acute health services and where library provision can be evidenced to divert or delay demand for more costly health or social care services. The cost saving, or avoidance, should be evidenced through research and articulated in the final report.

• Total funding: £40k including VAT and expenses
• Tender deadline: Friday 29 November

For more details please see the Invitation to tender.