This October, British Land and Marble Arch BID brought to life a creative initiative to give pre-loved books a new chapter – supporting mental wellbeing and fostering connection among local older people.

Over the past few weeks, employees across a number of companies in York House and Marble Arch House have been able to drop off their pre-loved paperbacks at reception to donate to older people. The collection featured everything from gripping thrillers by Richard Osman and Dan Brown to heartwarming romances by Danielle Steel. Thanks to the generosity of local employees, the campaign has generated over 150 book donations, which will be split across a number of local residential care homes.

Staff and residents at Leonora House welcome the book donations.

The first delivery recently made its way to Leonora House on Lanark Road, one of the BID’s valued community partners. The new books will take pride of place in the communal lounge, helping to spark conversations, reduce isolation and promote a sense of independence and connection among residents.

Leonora House offers 24-hour care and support, tailored to the individual’s needs, all within the ethos of encouraging each resident to live as independently as possible. It also runs a regular activities programme such as bingo, crafts and exercise sessions.

Thank you to all the employees across all the companies who donated to the campaign and helped share the joy of reading this autumn.