Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s Project – Feeling Connected is set to tackle the growing issues and cost of loneliness during Loneliness Awareness Week in June.
The Loneliness Awareness Week campaign, which aims to raise understanding of the ubiquitous problem of loneliness and inspire individuals and communities to take action, has the Feeling Connected team’s full backing in tackling this issue across Chesterfield and North-East Derbyshire. Acknowledging the urgency of addressing this issue given that loneliness affects communities across our region and urges wider participation during this significant week, which will be held from 12–19 June, 2023.
The Feeling Connected Project is focusing attention on the primary question, “Can loneliness evolve into a sense of belonging?” throughout Loneliness Awareness Week and beyond, and looking for many more answers, such as: How long does it take? What needs to happen first? Who is accountable for it? Where will it happen? Do we require a large number of close friends or a variety of weaker bonds? Would we rather feel needed? What difference can I make?
The negative impacts of loneliness, which is frequently called a silent epidemic, can be seen in both physical and mental health. It is a complicated problem with many facets that can affect people of many ages and socioeconomic backgrounds. Long-term loneliness has been linked to an increased risk of many long-lasting health conditions. Loneliness Awareness Week, which recognises the importance of battling loneliness, aims to increase knowledge, foster understanding, and offer helpful support to individuals who are affected.
“Whether it’s simple, community-based activities, neighbourhood groups or one-off local events, we’re helping to create opportunities for local people across Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire to feel more socially connected, to both the places and people around them. This will have a significant impact on the wellbeing of residents across the region. We believe a big part of the solution already exists – in our neighbourhoods” James Starky, Project Director Feeling Connected.
The Feeling Connected team encourages people to participate in Loneliness Awareness Week in some of the following ways:
- Speak to your friends, relatives, and neighbours to see if they know somebody who might be lonely.
- Join a local organisation that helps people who feel alone by volunteering.
- Do good deeds and lend a helping hand to those who are in need.
- Participate in social media campaigns and online forums to spread awareness and exchange experiences.
- Create or take part in neighbourhood gatherings that promote social interaction and fight loneliness.
These discussions serve as a launchpad for local action. Action that can transform neighbourhoods into vibrant hives full of purposeful and inclusive local initiativesthat everyone can be part of.To organise these, more people need to step up and work together, and in doing so everyone can find a role to play in making a difference.
The Feeling Connected Project is inviting anyone interested in answering these questions to join the conversation:
1. At The Hub, a community space in the centre of Chesterfield, for lunchtime conversations between 12-2pm, Monday 12th to Thursday 15th June. 61 Low Pavement, Chesterfield, S40 1PA
2. Participate in their free Connectedness Workshops running throughout the year across Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire. Visit www.feelingconnected.org.uk to find one near you
3. Join the Feeling Connected Family on Facebook: @FeelingconnectedDVA
But it all starts with awareness and engaging people in conversations about loneliness and belonging.
