Loneliness pandemic: How can WE help?
December 19, 2023
In 2022, it was reported that almost half of the UK’s population felt lonely.
Post-pandemic, our world has changed massively. We’ve had to get used to new structures, new ways of working, learning, and sharing time with people – all whilst working through the emotional effects of being socially isolated from friends, family, and peers for months on end. Whilst there is no doubt the lockdowns left lasting effects on the majority of the population, here at WE we’ve been finding new ways to combat loneliness! Here’s three of our affordable and accessible activities in the new year – come say hi!
All events mentioned in this article are for women only
Pour it out Sessions
Link – https://womenempoweredmcr.org/event/we-pour-it-out-sessions-3/
Date: 14th January 2024
Time: 7:30pm-9:00pm
Where: Remote (Online)
Cost: £3.00
Inspired by the Steel Magnolias on Netflix, join us to pour out a drink and talk about life! Everyone deserves a break and the chance to make new friends – all whilst from the comfort of your own home. For women that are ready for some socialising, this is the perfect way to meet new, like minded women who want to support and empower each other! Take time to rant, vent, listen, and care about yourself and others during this session.
Coffee Morning Social .
Link – https://womenempoweredmcr.org/event/ew-coffee-morning-social-4/
Date: 13th January 2024
Time: 10:30am-1:30pm
Where: M&S Cafe – 7 Market Street, Manchester, M1 1WT
Cost: Free
Hosted at the same place, same time, every second Saturday of there month – join us for our Coffee Morning social! This social is a fabulous opportunity to meet new women if you’re lucky enough to have weekends off and don’t want to give up evenings. Spend the morning in the wonderful city centre of Manchester, where you get the chance to explore surrounding shops, familiarise yourself with the city, or visit different surrounding areas, post-coffee with new friends!
Speed Friending
Link – https://womenempoweredmcr.org/event/we-speed-friending-2/
Date: 28th January 2024
Time: 3:00pm-5:00pm
Where: Whitworth Locke, Civic Quarter – 74 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 6JD Cost: £4.00
Specifically created event for women to create friends – for those new to the city, wanting more friends, and seeking a safe, supportive space, come join us! For a fun-filled, two hour time slot where you can break off into groups to chat and connect with future friends! Take your time getting to know everyone and see where things go! After the scheduled event, feel free to go for a drink, grab some food, or just walk around central Manchester with your new friend(s).
These events are great ways to establish new friendships, connections, and relationships with supportive women who share similar struggles. It is always important to remember that female friendships have many benefits; they can extend life expectancy, fight stress, boost moods, offer honesty, and create a positive, uplifting space (read more on Escape Haven about benefits of female friends).
Here at WE, we know how hard it can be to make the jump from solitude to immersing yourself in social settings – so take things at your own pace. We’ll be here either through online meet ups, in person, or over social media.
By Olivia Whelan