Connect
Building good friendships with people you trust is important for feeling happy. Talking to people around us helps us remember that we matter and are loved.
Simple things like getting to know your neighbours, maybe inviting them over for a cup of tea and a chat, can make you feel better and more confident. Making friends with others can help us feel like we belong and stop us from feeling lonely.
You could also reach out to someone you haven’t talked to in a while to let them know you’re thinking of them. It could make both of you feel happy. You might even try joining a local walking group, social group, or volunteer group.
Being social can mean different things to different people. Some might enjoy being part of a big group, meeting lots of new people, while others might prefer connecting in a quieter way, like talking on the phone, online, or even through letters. There are many ways to connect with others, so find what feels right for you and go for it!
There are many ways to connect in Staffordshire. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Staffordshire Connects is an online tool to find community support groups, organisations, and services near you. Search for “Befriending and companionship” to find opportunities in your area.
- Check out Places of Welcome, a network of local community groups where everyone feels safe to connect, belong, and contribute. There are many groups throughout the county. Visit Locations to find a group near you.