LIBRARIES across Worcestershire will be hosting a variety of events next week to raise awareness of how they can help improve mental health.

Mental Health Awareness Week begins on Monday, May 13, and runs through to Sunday, May 19.

Libraries will showcase specialist book collections endorsed by health professional.

These collections are aimed at supporting people of all ages with common health problems including anxiety, depression, dementia, pain management and stress.

County councillor John Smith, the cabinet member with responsibility for health and wellbeing, said: “There is such a wide range of positive activities planned across Worcestershire’s libraries, raising awareness during Mental Health Awareness Week.

"Mental health is an increasing national issue, and it’s great to see the county’s libraries come together and showcase their commitment to supporting this.”

A dementia choir kicked off the programme of activities by performing at The Hive, today (Friday). These sessions use music and song to stimulate communication and interaction and are run by a registered music therapist who is experienced in dementia care.

A tea-and-talk conversation cafe will be held on Monday and Friday 17 at St John’s Library, from 10am to 12.30pm.

Tai Chi sessions will be held at Malvern Library on Tuesday at 11.45am and at Evesham Library on Thursday, promoting the link between regular exercise and improved mental health.

A health walk will also be run from Evesham Library on the same day. Contact 01905 822722 for details.

Staff from Kidderminster Library will have an information stand at the Wyre Forest Volunteering and Your Wellbeing Fair, taking place at the Town Hall, Kidderminster on Thursday between 10am and 2pm.

Both Stourport and Droitwich Libraries will be hosting Connect Cafes on Friday, designed to bring people together in the library to share experiences and support each other around shared interests or issues such as being a carer and living with dementia.

There is no need to reserve a place, just visit the library and join the group.

For more information, please contact your local library or visit worcestershire.gov.uk/libraries.