🥰 From 15–21 June, people across the UK will come together to mark Loneliness Awareness Week, an annual campaign led by Marmalade Trust that encourages us to talk openly about loneliness and celebrate the power of meaningful connections.
Ahead of this year’s campaign, we’re delighted to shine a spotlight on Knitting Together, a creative community initiative led by the Impact Alliance and Marmalade Trust that is helping bring people together through the simple act of making.
At the heart of the project is a powerful idea: creating a chain of knitted and crocheted people that symbolises the connections that help us feel seen, valued and part of our communities. Through hundreds of handmade figures contributed by people across Bristol and beyond, the project will create a visual reminder that nobody should feel alone.
🧶 Knitting Together https://www.knittingtogether.community/
Save the Date: Community Event on 15 June
To mark the start of Loneliness Awareness Week, a special community knitting and crochet event will take place on 15 June, bringing people together to create figures for the installation and celebrate the importance of connection.
Whether you’re an experienced crafter or have never picked up a knitting needle before, everyone is welcome. The focus is on conversation, creativity and community, creating opportunities for people to meet others, share stories and make new connections.
Projects like this demonstrate how simple, shared activities can help break down barriers, foster belonging and remind us that small acts of connection can make a big difference.
🫶 All welcome – no booking required: Tobacco Factory, Bristol – Monday 15th June – Knitting Together
Time: 1pm – 5pm, Monday 15th June
Place: The Tobacco Factory Café Bar, Raleigh Rd Bristol BS3 1TF
What to expect: Informal drop-in with Anne, Laura, Elke and Helena – and anyone else stopping by for company, crafting, and the chance to chat about loneliness.
💜 Other Ways to Get Involved
Even if you can’t attend the event on 15 June, there are plenty of ways to support the campaign and get involved:
🧶 Knit or crochet a figure at home and contribute it to the growing installation.
🤝 Encourage friends, family, colleagues and neighbours to take part.
📱 Share the campaign through your networks and on social media.
💛 Start conversations about loneliness and the importance of meaningful connection.
🎉 Take part in activities and events happening during Loneliness Awareness Week.
Every contribution, conversation and connection helps raise awareness of an issue that affects people of all ages and backgrounds.
Get Connected at Bristol Charities
Loneliness Awareness Week is a reminder that connection starts with taking that first step. Across Bristol Charities, we’re creating opportunities every week for people to come together, build friendships and feel part of their local community.
Whether you’re looking to meet new people, enjoy a shared activity, learn something new or simply spend time in a welcoming environment, there’s something for everyone at our community hubs.
Discover What’s On
Vassall Community Hub
With 20+ regular activities and groups each month, Vassall Community Hub offers opportunities to connect through creative sessions, wellbeing activities, community events and social gatherings.
👉 View upcoming activities at Community Notice Board | Vassall Hub
Stockwood Community Hub
From coffee mornings and community lunches to exercise classes and special events, Stockwood is a welcoming space where local people can make new connections and get involved in community life.
👉 View upcoming activities Community Notice Board | Stockwood Hub
Take the First Step
As we prepare for Loneliness Awareness Week, why not challenge yourself to try something new? Attend a local event, join a group, volunteer your time or simply stop by for a chat.
Every new connection starts somewhere.
Explore what’s happening at our hubs and find an activity that’s right for you:
Find out more about Loneliness Awareness Week here www.lonelinessawarenessweek.org and the work of the West of England Impact Alliance www.impact-alliance.org.uk
Together, we can build stronger, more connected communities where everyone feels welcome, valued and supported.
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