About
The pandemic has had a profound effect on loneliness and highlighted the need and ability of our communities to connect and support each other. An effective network of local organisations rose to the challenge of creating imaginative ways of overcoming isolation for vulnerable residents, through longstanding work, with support of Tower Hamlets Loneliness Taskforce Grants.
In 2021 LBTH joined the national Connection Coalition set up by Jo Cox Foundation as a response to the acute loneliness caused by the Coronavirus pandemic.
Tower Hamlets Connection Network supports local organisations to work together to share ideas, information, and skills to deliver a stronger local response to loneliness and isolation, affecting our most vulnerable people.
Upcoming Connection Network events:
Thursday 6 March workshop: Shaping the future of tackling loneliness and social isolation in Tower Hamlets
This interactive Connection Coalition workshop organised by Tower Hamlets Council will bring together the voluntary and community sector (VCS), NHS, and local council colleagues to collaborate on tackling the issues of loneliness and social isolation.
Together, we’ll define the priorities that matter most, explore the most effective ways to work in partnership, and set clear goals for the upcoming year. Whether you’re a community leader, healthcare professional, or local authority member, your input will be crucial in creating a connected and resilient borough.
Resources
What is Just Say Hello?
Having a chat with an old friend or checking in on your elderly neighbour can make a big difference to their wellbeing. Even the smallest gesture can create a meaningful connection for someone, especially if they’re feeling lonely or isolated.
Just Say Hello is a local campaign about encouraging conversations and connecting with one other, by taking time out to say ‘hello.’ Partners, organisations and members of the community across Tower Hamlets are being invited to use the Just Say Hello resources in their own way – you could host an event or ‘pop up’ coffee session, use the resources to help strike up conversations with participants, or simply use them to signpost that this is a friendly place where residents are welcome to come and socialise.
How can you get involved?
No matter how you choose to help and connect with others, your kindness, and care will make a difference. There are lots of ways to get involved in the Just Say Hello campaign, both big and small. Here are a few ideas:
Everyday Connections
As voluntary and community organisations you likely meet a variety of people every day. Making each connection count is a great way to build relationships and trust in the community.
- Just Say Hello! Even a simple greeting can make someone feel seen and valued.
- Host an event. It doesn’t have to be big, just offering tea and coffee could be enough. All it takes is getting people through your doors and giving them a friendly space to relax and connect in.
- Be inclusive and welcoming to everyone. Make sure your people from all walks of life are catered for and included in your service or group.
- Check in on residents. Make sure they have everything they need and that they are not feeling lonely.
Community Groups
Part of the Just Say Hello campaign is encouraging residents to join local community groups and access services in their area. If you’re running a community group or provide a service we can help you promote that work.
- Use #justsayhelloth on social media posts
- Add your offer to the Tower Hamlets Connect directory. Tower Hamlets Connect is the boroughs official resident facing website. You can submit your service to their online directory here.
- Join the Tower Hamlets Connection Network. The network supports local organisations to work together to share ideas, information, and skills to deliver a stronger local response to loneliness and isolation. It meets regularly and hosts events throughout the year.
Make use of the toolkit
In partnership with Well One, we have created a free customisable media pack community toolkit, filled with posters, activities, decorations, and fun conversation starters. You can view and use the toolkit resources here.
You're not alone.
Loneliness is a serious problem, especially in London, affecting residents of all ages and backgrounds. The city’s busy lifestyle can make it hard to connect with others. In fact, 1 in 10 people in Tower Hamlets have said they feel lonely a lot of the time, and a survey showed the following people were at most risk of loneliness:
So, if you or the residents you work with are feeling isolated and in need of mental health support, there are local services that can provide support:
- Tower Hamlets Talking Therapies provides a range of psychological therapies and counselling services. 020 8475 8080
- Mind in Tower Hamlets provide advice and support, as well as free counselling for residents. 020 7510 4247/4248
- If you are feeling overwhelmed or struggling with your mental health, you can call the Tower Hamlets Mental Health Crisis Support number for free 24/7 on 0800 073 0003
www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/mentalhealth
Organisations participating in Just Say Hello
Connection Coalition
The Connection Coalition is an alliance of charitable organisations formed by the Jo Cox Foundation that are working together to reduce the impact of isolation, especially during and after the Covid-19 epidemic. It also aims to build stronger relationships and more connected communities long term.
THCVS (Tower Hamlets Council for Voluntary Service)
THCVS not only helps different community groups and organisations in Tower Hamlets work together to build vibrant and connected communities, but also promotes events, organizes initiatives with partners, and even lists local job opportunities.
https://thcvs.org.uk
Tower Hamlets Together
Tower Hamlets Together is all about health and social care organisations working closer together to improve the health and wellbeing of people living in Tower Hamlets.
https://www.towerhamletstogether.com
Tower Hamlets Council
The council has set up a task force to find ways to help people who feel lonely. They are looking at things like having a friend to talk to, joining new activities, or visiting a local community centre.
https://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/Tackling_loneliness
Well One
We know that when people feel connected to their community, they are more likely to be healthy and happy. That’s why we’re proud to be part of the Just Say Hello initiative, and we’re planning some ways of our own to bring you together and let you know about all the other great ways there are to connect in Tower Hamlets.
https://www.wellone.co.uk
