Learning Resource Centre

So cute! 🥰

Even at a glance, the platypus is a pretty weird creature. It looks sort of like a beaver that tried to disguise itself as a duck. But however strange platypuses look, they get even stranger. Here are five surprising facts about these oddball animals:

1️⃣ Despite being mammals, they lay eggs.
2️⃣ Their bills sense electricity to detect the motion of their prey.
3️⃣ The males have venomous spurs on their heels.
4️⃣ They glow blue-green under ultraviolet light.
5️⃣ The hairs of their fur share a structural similarity with bird feathers.

For more about these awesome animals check out our linktree (link in bio).

📷: IainStych from Getty Images/Canva Pro

❄️ Stay safe and warm this winter!

❄️ Don’t feel the chill at home this winter!

🏠 As the colder weather sets in, there are some simple things you can do to help keep your home warm and comfortable.

Check out some of our top tips ⬇️
• Move furniture away from radiators so heat can circulate
• Close curtains in the evening to keep heat in
• Use heating controls to help manage room temperatures
• Turning the room thermostat down by 1°C can save 10% off your bill
• Set room heat between 18°C and 21°C (64°F and 70°F)

We know that sometimes these simple steps aren’t enough. That’s where our Stay Safe and Warm campaign can help. 💙

♨️Our award-winning scheme provides free practical support to those who are eligible, including heaters, blankets, hot water bottles and energy-saving advice.💡

👉 Find out more about the support available by calling our friendly team on 03067 990038 or visiting our website: www.clevelandfire.gov.uk/community/ssaw/

✨📚 New to the LRC!

Inclusive Adult Education examines how adult learning can be made more accessible, equitable, and inclusive for all learners. A valuable resource for adult education practitioners, educators, researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in creating more inclusive learning environments. Available to borrow from Stockton and Redcar LRC.

🧠💚 World Mental Health Day 💚🧠

Today, on World Mental Health Day, we are reminded that mental health is just as important as physical health. It’s a day to raise awareness, encourage open conversations, and remind ourselves that it's okay to ask for help when we need it. World Mental Health Day encourages us to talk, listen, and support better mental health together.

Whether you're feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or simply need someone to talk to, remember that support is available and you don't have to face things alone.

💚 Take time for yourself. 💚 Check in with a friend. 💚 Be kind to yourself and others.

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/

🔒📱 Whether you're studying, gaming, shopping, or scrolling on social media, it's important to keep your accounts and personal information secure.

Make sure you're staying safe online this Cyber Security Awareness Month and beyond. Small steps, like using strong passwords and thinking before you click, can make a big difference. 🛡️

Love this! 🥰

A. A. Milne

❄️ Don't Face Winter Alone

As the colder months approach, we're launching our Stay Safe and Warm Campaign 2026 to help people stay safe, warm and well throughout winter.

Whether you're facing a temporary issue such as a broken boiler, struggling with heating costs, or know someone who may need support, help is available.

🏠 Last year, we supported more than 400 households and provided almost 900 items to help residents stay safe and warm at home.

💙 If you, a family member, friend or neighbour could benefit from support, please get in touch.

👉 Find out more about the support available by calling our friendly team on 03067 990038 or visit our website on: www.clevelandfire.gov.uk/community/ssaw/

📚 New Health Books Available!

Looking to deepen your understanding of health and care? Our latest arrivals explore person-centred care in nursing practice and provide an accessible introduction to the social factors that influence health and healthcare.

Available to lend now from Stockton and Redcar LRCs.