As part of his recent visits across County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT), Chairman Professor Richard Scothon visited the library services at both Darlington Memorial Hospital (DMH) and Prospect House at University Hospital of North Durham (UHND).
The visit was an opportunity to recognise the vital work of library teams in supporting staff education, professional development, and wellbeing.
Among the standout initiatives is the popular Fiction Prescription Book Club, which continues to go from strength to strength.
Open to all CDDFT colleagues, the book club offers a regularly refreshed reading list, giving staff the chance to take time out, relax, and connect with others through shared reading.
More than just a book club, Fiction Prescription reflects the wider role of CDDFT's library services – providing not only essential clinical resources but also creating supportive spaces for staff to focus on self-care and wellbeing.
The latest collection of brand-new books has been generously funded by Durham University, a valued partner of the Trust. Their donation ensures the book club remains well-stocked and continues to support the wellbeing of staff across all sites.
Professor Scothon praised the creative and compassionate work of the library teams, highlighting the importance of such initiatives in promoting a healthy, supportive workplace culture.
