New scheme opens library to homeless
CHARITY TO LET PEOPLE LIVING ON STREET TO USE THEIR ADDRESS TO ACCESS BOOKS
HOMELESS people in Manchester can now become library members and have full use of the city’s books and computers as part of a new scheme.
Becoming a member of a library is almost impossible without a permanent address, but now the homeless charity Lifeshare and Manchester City Council have teamed up to solve this.
People working with Lifeshare can now use a letter from them as their ID when signing up and use Lifeshare as their address.
Judith Vickers, Operations Manager for Lifeshare, said: “I am so pleased that we’re working with Manchester City Council to gain access to library cards for our homeless clients - this will be a lifeline for many.
“Due to increased demand for online applications from the Jobcentre, DWP and housing agencies, many clients have previously ended up facing benefit sanctions, or have missed bidding on properties due to not being able to access the internet at the appropriate time.
“Using Lifeshare as their address will enable them to access library services, breaking down feelings of exclusion.” The pilot scheme will cover all of the city’s 22 libraries and members will be able to use the internet, DVDs, e-books and audio books. Homeless people will not be made to pay fines for overdue books. Executive Member for Schools, Culture and Leisure, Councillor Luthfur Rahman, said: “Our libraries have always been places where everyone is welcome and this new scheme will ensure that people who are homeless can benefit from the services on offer. “This includes access to resources and information which, along with the other support available, can help them to move forwards in their lives.” Both Lifeshare and Manchester City Council are part of the Manchester Homelessness Partnership, set up in May 2016, which brings together organisations from the public, voluntary and faith sectors. Manchester City Council has already invested an extra £1.5million in the past year for extra homelessness services, including extra beds, food, showers, and support. There are nearly 1,000 temporary bed spaces for people who find themselves sleeping rough directly provided by or paid for by the council. The council’s digital book supplier, Bolinda Borrowbox, has also donated an iPad mini. Judith Vickers