Get active in life and mind during October

Devon County Council’s Active Life, Active Mind programme, aimed at supporting health and wellbeing, is back for the third consecutive year with events held in libraries throughout October.

The diverse programme of activities includes something for everyone. For those with creative minds, there are drawing workshops and creative writing groups, and for those looking for support with health and wellbeing there are health checks, guided walks and advice and guidance sessions.

To find out more visit your local library or website.

Councillor Roger Croad, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Devon’s library service said: “National research has shown clearly that good health and positive mental wellbeing come from a range of factors and actions. These actions include connecting with other people around us, continuing to learn or develop new interests, being active in a way that suits our mobility and fitness, taking notice of the world around us and giving to others as part of the wider community, whether with our time or in some other aspect of our lives.

“This Active Life, Active Mind programme shows the role of libraries in supporting all these things. Whether it is a chance to meet local organisations at a health and wellbeing fair, receive advice and information on an aspect of your health, start a new hobby or interest or meet new people, this programme has it all.

“Beyond this programme of events, your local library has a ready supply of free books, information and activities which are available to you throughout the year to support you to live a healthier, happier life.

“I encourage you to pop into your local library during October to find out what’s on offer.”

Councillor Andrea Davis, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Improving Health and Wellbeing, and Wellbeing and Chairman of Devon’s Health and Wellbeing Board said:

“With our public health role, we are well placed to champion the message about how living a more active life with a more active mind has real benefits to the wellbeing of a community.

“Our libraries provide a fantastic public space to deliver information and advice, and these sessions will provide a taster of the kind of activities available to improve body and mind.”

“This month-long programme is a really good example of how, using our network of community hubs, we can grow our influence and develop a truly integrated and transformational public health system.”

The full ‘Active Life, ActiveMind’ programme is available online.