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Social connection ideas
Where to start making new connections
The flipside of loneliness is connection. It’s important to know that a person isn’t defined by their loneliness; it’s just something that they are experiencing at that point in time and they’re still a unique and interesting individual with a range of hobbies and talents. However, feeling lonely can sometimes zap your zest for life or affect your confidence to join a club or community.
The good news is there’s a great range of resources and activities for everyone. What are your interests and what do you enjoy? Is there something you’ve always fancied doing? Our Marmalade connection directory will point you in the direction of like-minded people and the right social connections for you.
Creative
Engaging in creative activities can be a great way to connect with others and nurture your sense of self-expression. Joining a crafting club is not only a fun way to learn new skills but also a fantastic opportunity to meet new people who share your interests. Whether it’s knitting, pottery, painting, or paper crafts, many local groups offer regular meet-ups where you can get creative and connect with others.
Knit and Natter groups, often hosted in community centres or local cafes, are a great way to meet others while enjoying crafting. For photographers, many cities and towns offer local photography courses, and some galleries host photography walks where you can hone your skills with others. You’ll also find a range of Facebook groups dedicated to specific creative interests, from sewing and embroidery to painting and upcycling furniture. If you prefer more structured learning, adult education centres often offer short courses in ceramics, drawing, or sculpture, providing an accessible way to develop your creative skills while meeting new people.
⭐ Our team picks:
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Painters Online → An offshoot of The Artist and Leisure Painter magazines, Painters Online offer tips and run online and in-person courses and workshops, as well as art clubs, holidays and events.
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The Amateur Theatre Network → Interested in amateur dramatics? This volunteer-run network offers opportunities from treading the boards to helping backstage.
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Web of Loneliness → Express yourself through art. An online community and website which provides information and tips on loneliness. Users are able to share artwork and poetry.
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Bookshop live events → A quick Google search of local bookshops should point you in the direction of talks, book signings or workshops, which are great ways to meet like-minded people.
Animals/conservation and the environment
Connecting with nature and animals can be incredibly fulfilling, and there are plenty of ways to get involved. Volunteering at an animal shelter or joining a local wildlife conservation group can allow you to make a real difference while bonding with others who share your passion for animals and the environment. Community gardens, tree-planting events, or litter-picking groups are great ways to meet new people and care for the planet. If you enjoy animals but can’t commit to a pet, consider dog walking for elderly neighbours or volunteering at a farm, which often offers family-friendly volunteer days.
⭐ Our team picks:
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Social Farms & Gardens → A UK charity for farming and community growing projects with an emphasis on wellbeing and our connection to nature, including a network of local farms.
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Borrow My Doggy → Describing themselves as ‘connecting dog owners and local dog walkers for walks, weekends and holidays,’ this dog-loving community is nationwide and offers vetting and insurance.
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The Countryside Charity → A wide range of volunteering opportunities across the UK from becoming a ‘Hedgerow Hero’ to countryside co-ordinators and admin support.
History and culture
Explore history and culture by connecting with others over shared interests. Visiting local museums, galleries, or historic sites can be even more engaging when done as part of a group. Many places offer guided tours, which provide opportunities to learn while meeting like-minded individuals. Joining a local book club or a film discussion group focused on historical or cultural topics is another way to dive into meaningful conversations. Consider taking part in heritage walks or attending cultural festivals, where you can experience new traditions, foods, and performances while making connections.
⭐ Our team picks:
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British Association for Local History → A national charity promoting local history and serving local historians. Check out what talks are on near you, as well as regular guided visits to archives, libraries, museums and other places of interest.
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British Modern Military History → Founded in 2019, this Oxfordshire-based organisation holds regular talks, including a monthly Zoom call.
Physical exercise
We all know exercise is great for physical and mental health, but it can also be a powerful way to connect with others. Whether it’s joining a local 5-a-side football group, playing walking football, trying out netball, or taking part in Parkrun, being active with others can create a shared sense of purpose and fun. If you’re not into running, consider joining a walking group, yoga, badminton, climbing or joining a cycling club. The important thing is finding an activity you enjoy while sharing the experience with others.
⭐ Our team picks:
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The National Trust → Find new friends to walk with and feel connected to your local landscape. The National Trust offers a range of nationwide walks, including ones for mental health and UK groups run by BAME communities.
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Outdoor Swimming Society and National Open Water Coaching Association → No longer the domain of elite athletes and New Year’s Day dippers, cold water swimming is attracting people of all ages and abilities for the mental and physical health benefits, as well as the community aspect.
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Meet Up → Want to learn to tango? Dance the foxtrot? Try online salsa? Type in the dance of your choice, and this national platform will connect you with people in your area and beyond who have the same interests.
Learn something new
Learning opens the door to meeting new people and broadening your horizons. Sign up for a class that sparks your curiosity—whether that’s cooking, coding, a new language, or even woodworking. Adult education centres and online platforms offer endless opportunities to discover something new in a supportive group setting. Book clubs, discussion groups, or hobby classes like photography, gardening, or sewing can also foster connections over a shared learning experience. For those wanting to learn a practical skill while connecting with their community, workshops on sustainable living, like DIY home repairs or upcycling, can bring people together with a common goal.
⭐ Our team picks:
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The Women’s Institute → Started in 1915, the WI prides itself on being a trusted place for women of all generations to come together, have shared experiences, make a difference and learn new skills. With over 6,300 WIs across the UK and virtual WIs to join from the comfort of your own home.
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Men’s Sheds → A place to enjoy practical interests, meet people and learn to make and mend, Men’s Sheds is an organisation about social connections and shared spaces, rather than a solitary man sat in his shed. Despite the stereotype, Men’s Sheds also attract younger members and women. A great organisation for intergenerational connection.
Feeling useful
There’s nothing quite like volunteering to make you feel connected and valued. Whether it’s helping out at a food bank or mentoring a young person, volunteering opportunities offer a sense of purpose while fostering meaningful connections. Community initiatives like litter clean-ups, fundraising events, or charity runs are great for meeting like-minded individuals. You can also consider joining local committees or neighbourhood watch groups if you want to have a direct impact on your community. If you prefer online volunteering, there are opportunities to offer your time and skills remotely, from mentoring students to helping with digital projects for charities.
⭐ Our team picks:
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National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) → Representing over 16,000 voluntary organisations, charities, community groups and social enterprises across England, there’s a vast amount of volunteering opportunities available, as well as a network of accredited volunteer centres.
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Do It → A networking platform that focuses on wellbeing, Do It aims to bring people and communities together through doing shared good and has a significant charity database.
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Marmalade Trust → Join the Marmalade family and our wonderful team of volunteers! From Companions and Christmas Cheer volunteers to social media and admin support, volunteering with us is a great way to help others and make new friends.
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