Just Say Hello

What is Just Say Hello?

Having a chat with an old friend or checking in on your elderly neighbour can make a big difference to their wellbeing. Even the smallest gesture can create a meaningful connection for someone, especially if they’re feeling lonely or isolated.

Just Say Hello is a new local campaign about encouraging conversations and connecting with one other, by taking time out to say ‘hello.’  Partners, organisations or members of the community across Tower Hamlets are being invited to use the Just Say Hello resources in their own way – whether it’s attending an event at a local community centre, hosting a ‘pop up’ coffee session with your neighbours or dropping into a new class, there are many ways to make new connections.

How can you get involved?

No matter how you choose to help and connect with others, your kindness, and care will make a difference. There are lots of ways to get involved in the Just Say Hello campaign, both big and small. Here are a few ideas:

Everyday Connections

We all lead busy lives these days, but there are still many ways to make time for small gestures of kindness and connection in our community.

• Just Say Hello! Even a simple greeting can make someone feel seen and valued.
• Make a phone call to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. It’s a way to stay connected and let them know you’re thinking of them.
• Invite a friendly neighbour over for tea or coffee. This is a great way to get to know them better and build a friendship.
• Check in on elderly relatives and friends. Make sure they have everything they need and that they are not feeling lonely.
• Be inclusive and welcoming to everyone. Make an effort to get to know people from all walks of life.

Community Groups

If you’re looking for a way to meet new people and make friends, joining some of the many free community groups in Tower Hamlets is a great place to start. There are groups for all sorts of interests, from sports and hobbies to wellbeing and social causes. You’re sure to find a group that’s right for you, and when you do :

• You’ll have something to talk about. When you’re around people who share your interests, you can talk about things that you’re both passionate about. This usually makes conversations easier and more natural.
• You can learn from each other. If you have shared interests, you can share knowledge and tips with each other.
• You can support each other. Community groups are a friendly bunch, and often offer each other support and encouragement. This can be especially beneficial if you’re facing challenges in your life.
• It can be more fun!  Enjoying activities together can be more enjoyable and fulfilling.

Where can you find out about local groups and activities?

• Right here at Well One! Check for activities by type, day and cost in the Explore Activity section.
• Tower Hamlets Connect list local events and activities.
• Find out What’s On by visiting the Idea Store website.

---

Look out for the ‘Community Activities in Tower Hamlets‘ directory in Ideas Stores and community centres, or click the link to view online!

---

Volunteering

Volunteering is a rewarding way to meet new people, use your skills to make a difference, and it can often make you feel good about giving back to your community and helping people!

• Volunteer your time to a local charity or community group that supports people who are lonely or isolated. There are many ways to get involved, such as befriending, running activities, or helping at events.

Find volunteering opportunities in Tower Hamlets here.

You’re not alone

Loneliness is a serious problem, especially in London, affecting residents of all ages and backgrounds. The city’s busy lifestyle can make it hard to connect with others. In fact, 1 in 10 people in Tower Hamlets have said they feel lonely a lot of the time, and a recent survey showed the following people were at most risk of loneliness:

So, if you are feeling isolated and in need of mental health support, there are local services that can support you:

• Tower Hamlets Talking Therapies provides a range of psychological therapies and counselling services. 020 8475 8080
• Mind in Tower Hamlets provide advice and support, as well as free counselling for residents. 020 7510 4247/4248
• If you are feeling overwhelmed or struggling with your mental health, you can call the Tower Hamlets Mental Health Crisis Support number for free 24/7 on 0800 073 0003
• Tower Hamlets mental health and wellbeing.

---

Resources for community groups and organisations.

You’re being invited to use the Just Say Hello resources in your own way within your organisation – whether it’s hosting a ‘pop up’ coffee session, using them at an event that’s already happening or creating a drop-in activity, there are many ways to help residents make new connections.

Download social media and printable assets to help share the Just Say Hello campaign, or start your own conversations about loneliness and isolation.
We’ve even icluded some editable posters to make setting up your own coffee morning a piece of cake!

Email info@wellone.co.uk to ask about our ‘Coffee Morning in a Box’ toolkits. We’ll supply the tea, coffee, biscuits and fun icebreakers. You gather some people and let the conversations begin!

---

 

Organisations participating in Just Say Hello

Connection Coalition
The Connection Coalition is an alliance of charitable organisations formed by the Jo Cox Foundation that are working together to reduce the impact of isolation, especially during the Covid-19 epidemic. It also aims to build stronger relationships and more connected communities long term.

THCVS (Tower Hamlets Council for Voluntary Service)
THCVS not only helps different community groups and organisations in Tower Hamlets work together to build vibrant and connected communities, but also promotes events, organizes initiatives with partners, and even lists local job opportunities.
https://thcvs.org.uk

Tower Hamlets Together
Tower Hamlets Together is all about health and social care organisations working closer together to improve the health and wellbeing of people living in Tower Hamlets.
https://www.towerhamletstogether.com

Tower Hamlets Council
The council has set up a taskforce to find ways to help people who feel lonely. They are looking at things like having a friend to talk to, joining new activities, or visiting a local community centre.
https://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/Tackling_loneliness

Well One
We know that when people feel connected to their community, they are more likely to be healthy and happy. That’s why we’re proud to be part of the Just Say Hello initiative, and we’re planning some ways of our own to bring you together and let you know about all the other great ways there are to connect in Tower Hamlets.
https://www.wellone.co.uk

 

All Resources