We Are Connected
By building moments of connection, we can help ourselves and others to feel less lonely.
Loneliness isn’t always obvious but it’s a part of many people’s lives. Every day our lives pass others and the less we connect, the less we realise how much we need each other. Yet small spontaneous interactions, like a passing smile or a 5-minute chat can change the way we feel and make a big difference in all our lives.
Whether it’s your regular barista, the friendly dog on your walk, or the shopkeeper down the road, everyday moments of connection matter.
What can you do to make connection matter?
Have you thought about:
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Smiling at someone new
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Random acts of kindness
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Pausing for a quick chat
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Chat to your neighbour or better still, take them a coffee!
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Arrange a group walk
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Put loneliness on a work meeting agenda
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Hold a street party or picnic
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Meet a friend or colleague for lunch
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Host a film night or Speed friending event
The Be Connected Campaign
Newham residents who may be experiencing feelings of loneliness are being encouraged to get involved in one of three new pilot schemes, as part of a campaign aimed at tackling loneliness and social isolation. It is hoped the action will also inspire people to support others within their community, by simply taking the time to stop and connect.
The ‘Be Connected’ programme incorporates opportunities for residents to open up conversations, within spaces they may feel comfortable. Newham’s Community Neighbourhood Link Workers are launching three pilots - Chatty Benches, Chatty Cafés and Men in Sheds. They are partnering with more than 30 businesses and organisations that have all pledged their support to tackle loneliness in the borough.
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Be Connected: Chatty Cafes
We have partnered with the national Chatty Cafes Charity, community cafes and other venues across the borough to create opportunities for people to come together and connect. The idea is to encourage customers to sit at a designated table if they are happy to talk to others, especially those who may be on their own.
Download the flyer for more information and locations.
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Be Connected: Chatty Benches
The Chatty Bench initiative was started by the Campaign to End Loneliness. Signs have been installed in various community locations across the borough to help bring local people together by simply sitting down and having a chat outdoors, in their local environment.
Download the flyer for more information and locations.
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Be Connected: Men In Sheds
This is the only pilot that’s targeted at one particular group. It’s essentially based on making the most of community spaces so men can connect, converse and create. The activities that will take place will be similar to those of garden sheds, but for groups to enjoy together.
Download the flyer for more information about the locations and initiative.
Loneliness Action in Newham
If you would like to hear more about how we are tackling loneliness in Newham, would like to be part of our Loneliness Action Group or become an Ambassador please email LonelinessAction@newham.gov.uk or speak to your Community Neighbourhood Link Worker.
Share your story
An image speaks a thousand words - show your connection stories with photos and videos. These stories not only make us smile; they let us know where and how you’re making a difference to the lives of others. We’d also love to showcase any case studies of great work that might encourage someone else to make a connection.
We want to hear what you, your community, or your organisation is doing to tackle loneliness in the borough. Are you doing something that you’d like to share more widely? Contact LonelinessAction@newham.gov.uk to tell us more.
No Shame In Sharing
Over the last few years, we have all become more aware of loneliness and the importance of feeling connected with others. But while we all experience loneliness at some point, we don’t all feel comfortable talking about it - and that needs to change! Grow the conversation by sharing your experiences, ideas and tips on how to stay connected using the hashtags #NewhamConnected #LetsTalkLoneliness
Reaching out - if you or someone you know is feeling lonely you can talk to your local Community Neighbourhood Link Worker who can call or visit you to talk about how you’re feeling and offer advice, support and information on how to stay connected and healthy.
Looking for expert support with Loneliness?
If you need to speak to someone urgently, contact Samaritans on their 24/7 helpline by calling 116 123 or contact your Community Neighbourhood Link Worker and take the first step.
Email CNLW@newham.gov.uk or complete the Community Neighbourhood Link Worker Referral Form
