Cork library staff take part in 'just a minute' card training

Staff at Cork City Council Library have become the first to complete ‘Just A Minute’ (JAM) training among the council employee network, promoting inclusion and social awareness.

The JAM training initiative is designed to make everyday interactions easier and more supportive for people with hidden disabilities, communication challenges, or additional needs.

With this training, staff at the library will now be able to ensure that library services are even more accessible and responsive to the diverse needs of the community.

Training courses

The completion of the training comes as the local authority begins to roll out the programme to all staff members within the council, including the senior management team over the coming months.

The training programme has provided practical guidance on clear, respectful, and inclusive communication, and will help staff to provide a more accessible and supportive service to all members of the public.

Cork city librarian David O’Brien said staff are really pleased to be the first in council to complete the training and embrace the concept of ‘Just A Minute’ for those who need the facility.

“It is a really good thing that the JAM initiative is being rolled out across the services of Cork City Council,” said Mr O’Brien.

“It’s totally discrete and inclusive, and I very much welcome it.”

JAM card users can now use their cards or app to signal to library staff that they may need a moment of patience or support.

Used by more than 75,000 people across Ireland and the UK, the initiative supports people with conditions such as learning difficulties, autism, memory issues, or other hidden disabilities.

By showing a card or the app, users can communicate their needs non-verbally, providing an effective, non-verbal way to request understanding and support.

The initiative is supported by the NOW Group, a Belfast-based social enterprise that developed the JAM card to promote understanding and inclusion in public and customer-facing environments.

For more information on JAM cards and the JAM card app, visit:  https://www.jamcard.org/