By Ali George
The scheme is being piloted in the Liberton/Gilmerton area of Edinburgh with a view to expanding it across the city. The City Council’s Library Service is working together with the Children and Families Department to provide free information and advice for parents and carers of children aged 0-16, on topics such as diet, dyslexia, dealing with challenging behaviour and finding out about the nearest local family-friendly events.
Project coordinator Pat Southall was keen to stress that the scheme is aimed at supporting families in every way.
“This includes providing information on a range of areas, like local mother and toddler groups and books on everything from having a baby to dealing with difficult teenagers.”
“But we also want to let people know there is outreach work going on too – they can get one to one support in their home if they need it. Being a parent can be tough, but there is help available and it can be discreet as well as being free.”
Moredun Library is equipped with a manned information point including a PC with internet access, whilst nearby Gilmerton Library has a large number of new books and information relating to the project.
Several local groups who work with families attended the launch. These included The South Edinburgh Healthy Living Initiative, who provided fresh fruit which was then made into smoothies by teenage library users; Gracemount Leisure Centre who tested people’s football skills with a mini set of goals; and the Community Health Partnership who breathalysed everyone in sight to find out whether they smoked or not.
Currently the project is focused on Liberton and Gilmerton, but staff are optimistic that other areas will be targeted soon. In the meantime parents and carers from other areas of the city are advised to contact their local nursery, school or GP for support and advice.
