CITY residents are invited to celebrate the power of social connections and community spirit by joining in free activities as part of Leicester’s Let’s Get Together Week.
Supported by local organisations and council services, the city council’s public health team is coordinating the activities which run from Tuesday 10 to Friday 13 June.
The sessions aim to put a spotlight on ways people can reduce loneliness and isolation, and raise awareness of activities and services that bring people together and are available in the city all year-round.
Rob Howard, Leicester’s Director of Public Health said: "Experiencing feelings of isolation or loneliness is common, particularly when facing challenges related to physical or mental health. Simple things like sharing a conversation over a cup of tea or taking part in group events can really improve public health by giving people a sense of belonging and support.”
Kate Huszar, public health programme manager at the city council said “Building social connections is essential for our health and happiness. They help to reduce stress, boost our mood, and foster a sense of belonging.
“Over the week we will be highlighting the many free activities available through our year-round Let’s Get Together programme, so whether you're looking to try something new, meet new people, or just have fun, we invite you to join us and experience the joy of community.”
Most of the free activities will be taking place in the Haymarket Shopping Centre. Led by the council’s adult education service and running from 11am to 3pm, they include the chance to create pop art portraits and pebble art on Tuesday 10 June; textiles crafting and tapestry on Thursday 12 June; and digital skills on Friday 13 June.
The shopping centre will also host a ‘Togetherness Wall’, where people will be encouraged to post messages of positivity to connect with their fellow residents.
The council’s public health team will be in the centre for each activity day, joined by local organisations including Jamilla’s Legacy and Wesley Hall Community Centre to provide information about services and opportunities to help tackle loneliness.
Activities will also take place at St Barnabas Library on Wednesday 11 June.
Running from 11.30am to 2.30pm, they will include a seed-planting session led by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust; an introduction to the national Big Butterfly count; and stalls offering resources and information on supporting wildlife in Leicestershire.
The city council’s children’s Bookbus will be out and about throughout the week, highlighting the week’s activities and taking books to different parts of the city.
Details of all activities and the Bookbus locations and dates are on the council’s website.