Project

WERS plans to open a small community library specialising in books both in English and in other languages. The library will be open to everyone in the community and will provide a nice space to read, learn, listen to poetry and tell stories.

What does your charity/project do?

WERS welcomes asylum seekers and refugees from all over the world and works to build bridges between new and established communities. It offers advocacy and advice at the daily drop-in advice sessions, home visits, support through its befriending scheme and counselling service, provides secondhand clothing and household goods. It also raises awareness of refugee issues by working in schools and giving talks to community groups. 59 volunteers help the staff to provide this wide range of services.

How does your charity/project support the local community?

The community library will be run by volunteers who will also have the opportunity to learn new skills. The project will fill a gap as local libraries do not stock many books, particularly fiction, in other languages. Asylum seekers and local people could get to know one another and learn about each other's cultures and traditions as they share their interest in books and enjoy using this community resource.

What do you plan to use the CommunityForce award for?

The funding would be spent on the rent and utility bills of the small unit currently used by WERS for volunteer training and meetings. The rooms need a lick of paint and folding tables would be needed, WERS has already been given chairs and is exploring the offer of free shelving from one of the local universities. An attractive sign: 'West End Community Library' would be the finishing touch that would invite everyone to come in!