People struggling with the darker winter months can now borrow light therapy lamps from libraries across North Yorkshire as part of a pioneering scheme to help tackle seasonal depression.
North Yorkshire has become the first library service in England to offer the Wintering Well kits, which are designed to help people manage the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
A total of 150 kits became available to borrow from Monday, October 26, following funding from Arts Council England’s National Lottery Project Grants programme.
Each kit contains a therapeutic light lamp, alongside a guidebook offering advice on indoor and outdoor activities to help people establish healthier winter routines.
The packs also provide access to a free online course.
SAD is a form of depression associated with seasonal changes, with symptoms often becoming more noticeable during autumn and winter when daylight hours are shorter.
According to figures cited by the Royal College of Psychiatrists, more than a million people in the UK are estimated to experience the condition during the winter months.
The Wintering Well kits were developed by researchers at the universities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, working with people who experience SAD symptoms.
Following a two-year trial in Scotland, the scheme is now being expanded across the UK, with 16 library services in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland taking part.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for culture and arts, Cllr Simon Myers, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen as pioneers for England of the Wintering Well kits, which we are sure will be well-used as the darker months approach.
“Such initiatives that boost the health and well-being of our residents are integral, and they complement the resources already available at our libraries.
“I would like to thank library staff and volunteers for getting the service up and running. It proves that our library branches are so much more than places to borrow books. They are at the heart of our communities and a hub of support when people need it.”
Harrogate library user Jenny Barrie was given the opportunity to try one of the kits ahead of the official launch.
She said: “The winter is always quite a depressing time of year with the darkness, cold, and often wet weather. I certainly feel worse during the winter months, with much less energy.
“The lamp is very simple and easy to use. Although I have only had it for a short time, I think it is making a difference, and I hope to see further improvement the longer I use it.
“The other information provided has also given me some good ideas on how to look at the winter months differently. I’m so pleased to have been given this opportunity.”
The kits are available through North Yorkshire’s library service throughout the winter, offering residents a way to try light therapy without having to buy their own equipment.
Further information about the scheme is available through North Yorkshire Council’s Wintering Well webpage.
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