This Loneliness Awareness Week, the Isle of Wight Salvation Army is opening its doors wider than ever to offer connection, conversation, and companionship to anyone who may be feeling isolated.
The charity will be hosting 2 accessible, inclusive events during the week, ranging from a friendly Chatty Café to a gentle social walk, both desinged to remind Island residents that loneliness is not something to face alone.
The church and charity on 72 Pyle Street, Newport, aims to remind people, especially on the Isle of Wight, which suffers from rural pockets, seasonal population shifts, and limited public transport, that isolation can be especially acute.
Rosie Price, the Community Engagement Coordinator at The Salvation Army on Isle of Wight, works closely with isolated individuals and said the events are a reminder to everyone that no one should ever be alone.
Rosie said:
“I have had conversations with individuals who have shared they return to us week in week out because they feel seen, heard and loved in our space, with nothing but kindness and no judgment.
“I have seen individuals who started as strangers now save each other a seat every week. Loneliness doesn’t wear a sign, but it leaves its mark.
“This Loneliness Awareness Week, I want anyone who feels invisible to know: you are not a burden. You are not forgotten. Come as you are—tired, shy, unsure—and let us remind you that connection is still possible, and community is waiting right here.”
Article continues below this advertisement
The first event is a chatty cafe taking place at the Isle of Wight Salvation Army Church, Newport on 17th June at 10:00 – 12:00.
Tea and coffee will be available for £1 as well as homemade cake by suggested donation of £1 per slice.
Volunteers will welcome guests and encourage conversation throughout the event as well as Community Engagement Coordinator, Rosie, being present to signpost to local support services where needed.
The second event hosted is set to take participants out into the fresh air with a social walk on 18th June beginning at 10:00 from the Isle of Wight Salvation Army Church, Newport.
Organisers have noted that dogs are welcome to join for the occasion that in the event of rain, will be replaced with a warm indoor gathering with tea and coffee.
Both events are free to attend, with no booking required and organisers have said that both venues are wheelchair accessible, with the social walk able to accommodate mobility aids.
For specific access needs, please contact Rosie Price in advance – [email protected]
Aside from this weeks events, the Salvation Army runs a low-cost community café on every Tuesday and Friday from 10:00 to 13:00 which, following Loneliness Awareness Week, attendees will be encouraged to continue using the café to maintain and strengthen the friendships and support networks they have begun to build.
The initiative forms part of the world’s largest campaign on the issue, hosted by the Marmalade Trust. Recent research from the Marmalade Trust, which founded Loneliness Awareness Week, suggests that nearly half of UK adults experience loneliness at least some of the time.
In addition to offering pastoral support through church services on Sunday, The Salvation Army on the Isle of Wight provides practical support throughout the week with their community hygiene bank – this is accessible to all that are experiencing hygiene poverty.
If you are working with professionals please request a referral through them, alternatively contact the Isle of Wight Salvation Army Church and complete a self-referral. On Fridays at 10:00 – 14:00 there is community drop in run by homelessness services and supported by other groups seeking to offer support to anyone in need.
To learn more about the work of The Salvation Army in Isle of Wight or to support their efforts, visit their website here.
