Loneliness impacts people of all ages. The week serves as a timely reminder to connect with family, friends, neighbours and the wider community, particularly those who may be feeling isolated or alone.
“ The theme of this year’s Loneliness Awareness Week focuses on tackling loneliness by creating supportive communities where people can have open, honest conversations. Loneliness can affect anyone, at any age or stage in life. We want to ensure that no one in Walsall feels they have to face things alone. This week is a reminder that help is always available and that a simple conversation can make a big difference. “
Councillor Keir Pedley, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health
Walsall Council
Residents can access a number of free services across Walsall to help them or others have open and honest conversations about loneliness. The Let’s Chat bus travels to different venues across the borough, offering support on a wide range of topics. Residents who visit the bus can also complete their personal 8 Steps to Wellbeing plan, which helps them and others understand what is important to keep healthy, well, and independent. To find out more about Let’s Chat and download a free copy of the 8 Steps to Wellbeing Plan, visit the Council’s wellbeing support pages.
Making Connections Walsall is free service which provides one-to-one support to help residents overcome loneliness and social isolation. It offers befriending opportunities, connects individuals with community activities and signposts to further support services. To make a referral, visit the Walsall Council website.
The Walsall Wellbeing Directory contains activities, services and groups to help all residents of the Walsall borough live healthy, active and fulfilling lives. The directory can be accessed through the Walsall Council website.
Anyone who needs urgent help for their mental wellbeing can contact NHS 111 and select option 2 (mental health option) to speak to a trained professional.
Face-to-face support outside usual mental health service hours can be accessed between Monday – Friday from 6pm to 11pm and weekends 12pm to 11pm at Walsall Sanctuary Hub (1 Queen’s Parade, Bloxwich, Walsall, WS3 2EX).
For more information about urgent help for your mental wellbeing, visit the Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust website.
For details about Loneliness Awareness Week, visit the Marmalade Trust website.