Community Matters: The cure for loneliness

As community builders, we often ask people three key questions:

"What would you like to change in your life? What would you like to change in your area? How can you go about making those positive changes?" By listening to people's answers, we work alongside them to turn their ideas into reality.

A common desire we hear is that people want to make new friends and feel less isolated. Fortunately, Hele, Watcombe, and Barton are home to three thriving community centres and several active churches, providing wonderful opportunities to meet new people and try new activities. If you're looking for local events, check out the community diary on my Facebook page: Theo Community Builder Hele Watcombe Barton.

The Acorn Centre: A Community Hub Reimagined

The Acorn Centre has been undergoing a transformation, emerging as a vibrant space after a period of restructuring and refurbishment. With two new meeting rooms, a new changing room, and a fantastic coffee bar open to the public from 9 am to 10 pm daily, it's an ideal place to catch up with friends after the school run. The centre also offers event space for hire, perfect for parties, special occasions, or community meetings. Volunteers are always welcome, whether to support the centre's running or to join the trustee board. Take a moment to visit and see how you can get involved! The Acorn Centre is located in Barton (Lummaton Cross off Happaway Road).

Get Involved with the Community Partnership

Another great way to engage with your community is by joining the Community Partnership. This group meets every two months to discuss and implement changes and improvements to the area. These meetings are attended by local councillors, police, housing representatives, and community leaders, and they are open to all residents. The next meeting, which is also the AGM, will take place on 21st May at 10 am at the Windmill Centre on Pendennis Road in Hele.

Exciting New Activity Groups

We are thrilled to introduce two new activity groups for the community:

• Mindful Photography Group: Meets every Monday from 11:30 am to 2 pm at various outdoor locations. This is a free group led by Simon. Contact him at 07821 666322 for meeting points.
• Local History and Reminiscence Group: Meets on the third Wednesday of each month at the Acorn Centre Café. A fantastic way to explore local history and share stories with others.
• Kids' activity club, Multi-Sports, with Jamie on Mondays and Fridays from 4pm to 5pm at the Acorn Centre for ages eight to 16, £6 per child. Contact the Acorn centre to book.

Make a Difference as a Befriender

Many people in our community are unable to get out and about, and befriending can make a significant difference in their lives. You can volunteer formally, with training provided, or simply be a good neighbour in an informal way. Whatever suits you best, we encourage you to reach out and lend a hand.

For more information, get in touch:

• Theo: theotanser@torbaycdt.org.uk
• Simon: simonlangridge@torbaycdt.org.uk

Together, we can build a stronger, more connected community!