4 ways to feel less lonely in October

Hi friends! Meg from Marmalade Trust here. October brings crisp air, cosy jumpers, and the vibrant colours of autumn leaves. It’s a month full of change, making it the perfect time to refresh our social connections and focus on building meaningful relationships as we settle into the colder months.

Making friends and new connections can be hard work, especially when we’re feeling lonely. As part of our monthly series, we’ve put our heads together to find some opportunities and ways to feel less lonely and build connections in October. As always, comment below or drop us a line on social media to share your ideas!

Create a nurturing environment

The absence of touch can be a significant factor in loneliness. Make your home a nurturing sanctuary that appeals to your senses in other ways. Invest in tactile soft furnishings like comfy cushions and cosy blankets. Scented candles that smell calming or uplifting are also a good way to nourish your senses. Have bright or uplifting visual mementoes around you like inspiring photographs or paintings that you like, as well as postcards that remind you of good times and happy memories.

Brighten your home with cheery or beautiful vases of flowers. Bring nature into your home as well, plants are well known for their health benefits. Peace lilies, Boston Ferns and Gerbera Daisies are all great for relieving stress and detoxifying the air.

Warm up with autumn walks

The vibrant colours of October make it one of the best months to enjoy a walk outdoors. Walking is not only great for your physical health but can also be a powerful way to manage feelings of loneliness. Whether you join a walking group or simply ask someone to stroll through your local park, it’s a low-pressure way to enjoy the changing scenery while striking up a conversation.

You could even join in one of the many autumn nature walks hosted by the National Trust or local wildlife groups. It’s a lovely way to connect with nature and others who appreciate it too.

Volunteer for Marmalade Trust this Christmas

Looking ahead to the festive season? October is the perfect time to get involved with volunteering for Christmas Day! Marmalade Trust is looking for volunteers in Bristol, South Glos., and North Somerset to help bring joy and companionship to some of the loneliest people in our community this Christmas. More info: marmaladetrust.org/christmas

Can’t make it on Christmas Day? You can still support our work by raising awareness or joining our 1500 Club to help us fundraise. Volunteering not only provides vital companionship to others but is also a wonderful way to meet new people and feel connected to your community. If you're not in the Bristol area, check out volunteering opportunities near you over the festive season.

Join a crafting club and get creative indoors

As the weather cools and we spend more time indoors, October is the perfect month to start a new craft. 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.

These clubs provide a relaxed, supportive environment where conversation flows naturally as you work on your projects. It’s also a great way to learn from others and share tips and ideas.

📍Check out your local library, community centre, or websites like Meetup and Facebook for crafting clubs near you.

As we move into autumn, it’s important to remember that loneliness is just one feeling among many. Rather than trying to “cure” it, let’s focus on creating opportunities for connection. Whether it’s a peaceful autumn walk with a friend, volunteering with Marmalade Trust, or taking up a new crafting hobby, October is full of opportunities to meet others and build new friendships.

So, let’s embrace this new season and all the opportunities it brings to connect with others. Let me know how you get on!

Meg at Marmalade Trust