Just Say Hello

"Just say hello" written in speech bubble with icon of waving hand

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.

Gif with alternating images - Young man asks elderly ladies if he can get anything from the shops for them, Muslim lady asks someone if they want to join her friends for pizza, man asks if there are any local language classes he can join

How do I 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 including:

Everyday connections

We all lead busy lives, but there are still many ways to make time for small gestures of kindness and connections including:

  • 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 - stay connected.
  • Invite a friendly neighbour over for tea or coffee - build a friendship.
  • Check in on elderly relatives and friends - ensure their needs are met and they are not feeling lonely.
  • Be inclusive and welcoming - get to know people from all walks of life.

Community groups

Joining some of the free local community groups is a great to meet people and make new friends. Groups cover many interests, from sports and hobbies to wellbeing and social causes.

Find out here about the various Tower Hamlets organisations that offer free or low cost activities and groups to join.  

Volunteering

Volunteering is a rewarding way to meet new people, use your skills to make a difference, and 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. 

"Even the smallest gestures can make a big difference to someone's day" - icons images of smile, thumbs up, waving hand

You are not alone

Loneliness affects residents of all ages and backgrounds. A busy lifestyle can make it hard to connect with others. 1 in 10 people in Tower Hamlets have said they often feel lonely. A recent survey shows these people are most at risk of loneliness:

Icons of factors that can cause loneliness - financial, living alone, disability/illness, life changes, prejudice

If you are feeling isolated and in need of mental health support, these local services can help you:

Animated gif - two muslim women greet eachother, carer suggests getting out of the house to wheelchair user boy, three middle aged men from different ethnicities bond

Participating organisations  

Connection Coalition
THCVS (Tower Hamlets Council for Voluntary Service)
Tower Hamlets Together
Tower Hamlets Council
Well One

Logos of participating organisations

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