Making connections, valuing our volunteers and working together to address loneliness and isolation
Thu, June 15, 2023
Members of Causeway Loneliness Network joined the Mayor at a recent reception in Ballymoney to celebrate and thank volunteers working within the Borough.
With specific emphasis on volunteer members within Causeway Loneliness Network, the Mayor also paid tribute to the 63 community organisations who work tirelessly to address loneliness and make connections happen with the support of the Social Connections Grant.
The newly appointed Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Steven Callaghan praised the great work being done by volunteer led organisations, saying: “This Loneliness Awareness week it’s especially important to highlight the support available to people who are feeling lonely.
“I commend the community groups within our Borough who work tirelessly creating innovative support tools to ensure those who are vulnerable can access the right help when they so desperately need it.”
Chair of the Causeway Loneliness Network, Thelma Dillon added: “People who volunteer in their communities often provide essential support and create connections, for those who feel lonely and isolated, across the age spectrum. I would like to commend you all for all that you do”.
A range of innovative initiatives by the Network - prioritising opportunities for individuals and groups to connect - are ongoing, such as The Kindness Post Boxes, Chatty Cafes, Chatty Benches, Chatty Carriages and Human Libraries.
Loneliness Awareness Week is dedicated to raising awareness of loneliness. It is all about creating supportive communities by having conversations with family, friends or colleagues about loneliness. Loneliness is a natural human emotion - we are hardwired to need social connections. By talking about it, we can support ourselves and others.
Marmalade Trust is the UK’s leading loneliness charity offering support for all ages and the only charity in the world specifically dedicated to raising awareness of loneliness for more information visit www.marmaladetrust.org #letstalkaboutloneliness
For further information or should your organisation wish to become a member of Causeway Loneliness Network please contact: Anne-Marie Doherty heathandwellbeingteam@northerntrust.hscni.net
