English Rural are proud to support the Plunkett Foundation loneliness campaign this winter
This Winter, we are proud to be supporting a campaign aimed at individuals and communities in rural areas, highlighting the role of rural community co-operatives in helping people overcome issues such as loneliness and isolation. The campaign is being lead by the Plunkett Foundation and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation.
We see first-hand the impact of loneliness amongst our residents and in the communities where we work, community co-operatives which are supported by the Plunkett Foundation can transform the lives of people in rural areas and we want to share your stories of loneliness within a rural community through case study videos and photos to help combat the issue.
Hear how rural communities are making it their business to help local people
Take action in your community
You may not be feeling lonely yourself, but you may well know of someone who is. We’ve come up with some ideas of how you can help bring the community together this Winter. Share what you’re doing with us on social media, using #thelittlethings
- Give an hour of your time to volunteer locally in your community co-operative
- Offer to join a neighbour when they’re walking their dog – pop a notice up in your community co-operative
- Offer to take someone for a cuppa in the community café or a drink at the local pub
- Organise a quiz night in your community co-operative or community hub
- Would members of your community co-operative like to go to the cinema one evening, car share
- Can your community co-operative collaborate with a local organisation, such as Young Farmers, WI, Men in Sheds for an event, or to provide social/ volunteer opportunities?
- Phone a friend instead of texting
- Offer to put up or take down festive decorations in your local shop, café, church or pub
- Christmas and New Year can be a lonely time for some people, send a card to someone new or invite them round for a festive mince pie – through the community shop?
- Going to the local shop? Pick up something extra for a neighbour or friend in the village
- Get a group together for a walk on New Year’s Day – perhaps the local pub, shop or community hub could provide hot drinks at the end?
- Organise a community lunch for the community and ask for a small donation of food
- Rally up some support to go carol singing and get to know your neighbours in the process.
- Attend a local event and chat to new people – encourage engagement with the community co-operative as a social hub
- Maybe your community has a Facebook group, use it as a platform to start a conversation, see if anyone wants company for lunch or just to meet up for a chat.
Prefer to do things by post? The Plunkett Foundation can send out a resource pack Fill in our form
Still struggling with loneliness?
Loneliness is an issue which affects many people and there are organisations out there who can help. As much as we want to showcase everyone’s stories, we want you to feel comfortable sharing. If you’re currently experiencing loneliness or mental health issues, here are some organisations who you can talk to:
Mind Call: 0300 123 3393 or Text: 86463
Mind’s tips for coping with loneliness
Samaritans Call: 116 123
