Just Say Hello - Find Connection in Tower Hamlets
How to get connected
Join a local group or class
Find book clubs, conversation groups, arts, dance and exercise classes through your local Idea Store (our Tower Hamlets libraries).
Browse Love Tower Hamlets for free and affordable activities.
Speak to a social prescriber
Social prescribers in GP practices can help you find new hobbies, support groups and community connections. Ask your GP to refer you for an appointment at your GP practice with a social prescriber.
Try LinkAge Plus if you are aged 50 and over
Linkage plus is a network of 5 voluntary and community organisations ( Age UK East London, Neighbours in Poplar, Peabody at Sundial, Sonali Gardens and Toynbee Hall) across Tower Hamlets offering outreach, activities and advice for residents aged 50+, with free social and wellbeing activities. You don’t have to commit to anything, just pick a session and check it out!
Get befriending support if you cannot leave your home
Age UK East London proposed befriending services for older adults, contact them on 020 8981 7124 or email befriending@ageukeastlondon.org.uk
Tower Hamlets Friends & Neighbours provides one‑to‑one befriending for residents aged 55+.
If you’re feeling lonely now, someone can listen
You can talk to someone right away via these national helplines:
- Shout text support (any age) – Text 85258 for free confidential support.
- SANEline – Out‑of‑hours mental health support: 0300 304 7000
- The Silver Line (Age UK) – 24/7 friendship and advice for people 55+: 0800 470 8090
Learn more about loneliness
- Both older and younger people can experience loneliness, especially during big life changes.
- More loneliness facts and statistics can be found here
Useful links
- There are many local charities, community groups and organisations in Tower Hamlets offering free or low cost social and wellbeing group activities to residents.
- Check out our directory to find your local group: Community Directory
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.
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.
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:
If you are feeling isolated and in need of mental health support, these local services can help you:
- Tower Hamlets Talking Therapies provides a range of psychological therapies and counselling services. Tel: 020 8475 8080
- Mind in Tower Hamlets provide advice and support, as well as free counselling for residents. Tel: 020 7510 4247/4248
- Tower Hamlets Mental Health Crisis Support if you are feeling overwhelmed or struggling with your mental health. Tel: Free 24/7 on 0800 073 0003
- Tower Hamlets mental health and wellbeing
Participating organisations
Connection Coalition
THCVS (Tower Hamlets Council for Voluntary Service)
Tower Hamlets Together
Tower Hamlets Council
Well One
