For many people, feeling engaged with their local community and building strong social networks is an important part of their wellbeing. This page explores how to find local services in your community and build networks.
Groups and activities
Whether it’s lunch clubs, exercise classes, ‘men in sheds’, memory clinics or IT classes, there are a huge range of groups and activities provided through local organisations and charities. These can be a great opportunity to learn new skills, keep fit and build friendships.
The following national charities co-ordinate activities and groups:
Transport services
If you drive but you are finding it hard to walk far once you get somewhere you might find it helps to have a Blue Badge so you can park more easily. Badge holders can use designated parking spaces and there is a relaxation on the rules regarding parking restrictions.
A driver or passenger can apply for the badge. You can find further information on the Gov.uk website.
Some local areas have “dial a ride” or community transport schemes which run mini-buses for older and disabled people usually following routes to towns and shopping areas.
Your local authority may have a directory of these transport services, you may wish to contact the Adult Social Care team in the first instance or visit the local authority website. You can search for your local authority on the Gov.uk website, here.
If you regularly use trains or coaches, you may wish to explore discounted travel through railcard and coach card schemes. There are also bus pass schemes for both disabled people and those of State Pension age.
Isolation and befriending
There are different reasons why we might feel isolated or lonely – perhaps you’ve lost a loved one, moved away from friends and family, lost a social contact or have health problems that make it difficult for you to go out and do the things you enjoy.
There also might not be any clear reason at all and admitting you feel lonely can be hard. Lots of people experience similar feelings and understanding why we feel lonely can help us cope better and seek out the right support.
Loneliness
Loneliness can have a significant impact on our mental wellbeing but there is support available. You may wish to start with the following links:
Befriending schemes
Befriending schemes can offer companionship and friendship. There are a number of different services that can offer regular contact with a befriender in person, over the phone or online. The following charities offer national and local befriending:
Read more
Care needs assessment
Your local authority could help you to get the right support in place, whether you’re in need of care yourself or looking after someone else.
Adapting your home
Could some changes to your home make it better suited to your needs? Read more about the aids and adaptations that might be available.
Housing options
Decided that now is the time to move to new accommodation that better suits your needs? There are a few options depending on your age such as supported housing, retirement communities and care homes.