Introduction

Braw Blether – a Book Group With a Difference promises ‘there is no preparation required’. Removing the pressure to read a book you have not chosen has been proven to engage individuals looking for a different way into reading. Since the onset, these weekly, library-based sessions, using words for wellbeing, have witnessed long-term attendance.

When I began the role of Healthy Reading Bibliotherapist, the service was entering its third year and had retained a number of original group members. I have been continually struck by the level of commitment they display. Each week, I observe the group arriving, often carrying books or photographs from home that in some way follow on from the previous week's conversation. Participants can face an eventful morning: some rely on assisted transport, others wait indoors for a support worker to help with the morning routine. Occasionally, people arrive in suits from a job interview, other times a funeral – yet attending the group remains an obvious priority.

External and ongoing internal evaluations have shown multiple benefits to participants’ health and wellbeing, including increased relaxation, improved confidence and escapism, all possible from a single session. However, further qualitative data from recent case studies highlighted some longer-term outcomes, namely a continued passion for reading and sharing of books; a growing sense of community for previously isolated individuals; and a rise in confidence resulting in emerging creative work.

This chapter reflects on the advantages and ongoing challenges of bibliotherapy work without a clear ending. Through reflection on my first year as a new facilitator to two well established bibliotherapy groups, I explore ways of maintaining a healthy group dynamic over time. This includes the selection of session material; developing trust and group cohesion; supporting creativity; and addressing issues around stigma. The chapter concludes with a set of practical tips based on my experiences managing the challenges of facilitating a long-standing bibliotherapy service.

Background to the bibliotherapy service

Midlothian, located to the south of Edinburgh, experiences considerable socio-economic disparity: some of the most expensive properties in Scotland co-exist with areas of high unemployment and deprivation stemming largely from the long-term decline of the traditional local mining industry.