Connect with your community
Connecting with our communities is so important as they uplift us, support us, and make us who we are. This quarter’s theme is all about growing that connection so that it becomes bigger and stronger and we reap the benefits of being a part of a community.
The ‘Connect with your community’ idea aims to teach and suggest ways to open doors, where we can meet new people and make new friends. Feeling part of a community that is important to us can bring happiness, friendship, and support. Whether you enjoy meeting new people, joining activities, or simply feeling included, connecting with others can make a big difference in your life.
Here are some ways to get you thinking about how we can grow our connections with our communities:
- Join a Local Group or Club
You could join a craft club, book group, gardening project, or a sports team. Being part of a club is a great way to meet people, make friends, and learn new skills in a safe and friendly space. You can find local clubs by speaking to people in the community, such as at your local library or even your GP, or by doing a quick online search for a specific activity near you. You’ll be surprised at how many groups or clubs there are in our communities!
- Try Volunteering
Helping out in your community can be a great way to feel valued and meet other kind people. You could volunteer at an animal shelter, a charity shop, or a community garden to do something that interests you. Not only does volunteering help others, but it can also teach you new skills that are valuable for life.
- Visit Community Events
Look out for local fairs, music events, coffee mornings, and workshops. They will be displayed in local shops or in online groups for your local area, such as on Facebook or through the Council’s website. These events are fun ways to meet new people, explore your interests, and feel part of something bigger. If large crowds feel overwhelming, you could also bring along a friend or support worker to help you feel comfortable and settle in while getting them involved too! Remember that our Creative Support community also hosts a wide variety of different events throughout the year, so feel free to sign up and join in with one near you when you have the chance!
- Join an Online Community
Not all communities are in-person; some are found online and are just as supportive and interesting as those you might find nearby. There are Facebook groups, Reddit forums, co-op video games, and virtual events for people with shared interests. You can chat with others, ask questions, and even join virtual meet-ups from the comfort of your home. Here, you can also discuss your interests with others who understand your interests, so you can chat away for hours! Ask your support worker if you need help when accessing the internet, and they’ll be happy to help.
If you are using social media and the internet, here are some important tips for staying safe online:
- Only add or accept friend requests from people you know or have met in person.
- Be wary of messages from strangers, and don’t send photos or personal information to people you don’t know.
- Ensure you have a high-security privacy setting on all platforms.
- If you feel uneasy about posts or messages from someone, report them to your support worker or press the ‘block’ button.
- Avoid sharing anything personal or potentially embarrassing.
We’d love to hear all about the way you’re connecting with your community. Email communications@creativesupport.co.uk to be featured in our magazine, website, or social media!