- #TheLonelyMillion
get connected
Why is Social Connection Important?
As social creatures, connection is a fundamental aspect of what it means to live a happy and healthy life.
When we feel connected to others, we are more resilient to stress, experience lower levels of anxiety and depression, and are more likely to lead a fulfilling life.
Social connections can also boost self-esteem, provide emotional support during difficult times, and offer a network of people who can share in our successes and challenges.
Studies show that individuals with strong social ties have a lower risk of chronic illnesses, better cognitive function in older age, and even can make us live longer.
Finding What Works for You
In today’s digital age, where virtual interactions are prevalent, it’s more important than ever to nurture genuine, face-to-face relationships.
However, it’s crucial to find the right social connections and activities that works for you as everyone’s needs, interests and preferences are different.
Whether you’re interested in sports clubs, social groups, activity-based communities, there’s a wide variety of options available to build connection.
The Great Friendship Project hosts free and low-cost community activities in London to help young adults meet, connect and hopefully build life-long friendships. From social walks, games evenings, day trips, social events, activity nights to picnics, they offer a range of activities designed to help build new connections.
ParkRun is a free, weekly, community-led 5k run that takes place in parks across the UK. It encourages people of all ages and abilities to participate in running or walking, promoting health, fitness, and social connection.
GoodGym is a national organisation with an innovative approach to exercise and volunteering. They combine running, walking and cycling with supporting older people and charities. Each session includes completing a vital task for someone in your local community. These are tasks for charities and community groups such as food banks, city farms or community centres (e.g. sorting donations, painting classrooms etc) tasks for older people that they may struggle to do alone. There is no commitment and it is the easiest way to volunteer where you live and you can choose to run, walk or cycle to every session.
The Ramblers is Britain’s walking charity. Whether you’re a hardcore hiker or a weekend walk-and-talker, with over 500 Ramblers groups across Britain, including a growing number for younger walkers, there is bound to be at least one close to you. Being a member of the Ramblers means you can walk with multiple groups where you live, or explore somewhere new while you’re away. It opens up a wealth of walking experiences: discover different types of walks, meet new people, and walk on different days, wherever you are.
Mencap provides support and services for people with learning disabilities, incluing social groups and activities. Joining Mencap's community can help you build meaningful connections while contributing to an inclusive environment.
These community spaces are designed for men to come together, work on projects, and engage in conversations. It’s a supportive environment where men can reduce feelings of loneliness while engaging in creative activities.