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How to make new connections in your community

If you’re feeling lonely, it may be a sign that you need to expand your social network. When you move to a new city, become a parent, start a new job or new school for example, it takes time to build a web of acquaintances (i.e., weak ties), feel connected to your community and even longer to turn acquaintances into friendships. How do you even get started making connections in your community? Small steps!


Here are 12 simple ways to start connecting with those around you:


How to make new connections in your community

Share a smile

Start off simple! Instead of having your head down in your phone, or pushing ahead in a rush, think about your face. Chances are it’s not engaged with the people around you. But smiling is easy, convenient, quick, and it can reach loads of people at once. Whether you’re in the supermarket, on public transport, or walking to the office, a smile at the people around you is a simple and effective way to spread some happiness and a little glimmer of connection. Smiling is contagious and can brighten someone’s day – including your own.


How to make new connections in your community

Join local Facebook groups

Social media platforms like Facebook often have community groups based on areas or postcodes. These groups can be an excellent way to find local events, buy/sell goods, and even ask for advice or recommendations. By engaging with people in your local community online, you might find new friends and activities to join in person.


"When I first moved to Bristol, I joined Bristol Girl Facebook group (part of the City Girl Network across the UK), dedicated to empowering, inspiring and supporting all women. They run monthly meet ups, like coffee chats or panel events, but mostly I love the way there are daily discussions and questions and everyone is so supportive and friendly. I've made lots of friends through the group!" Alice, 38


How to make new connections in your community
Rebecca and Lesley

Volunteer

Volunteering is one of the best ways to meet new people and give back to your community. There are countless organisations, like Marmalade Trust, looking for volunteers to support events or provide companionship. Giving your time freely to someone or something other than yourself is one of the most rewarding things you can do. Studies show that volunteering can improve both your mental and physical health, increase your happiness levels, boost self-esteem and help you become more socially connected. Volunteering makes people smile and builds a sense of community and empathy for others.


Marmalade Companion volunteer Rebecca told us: "I got a lot from it, Lesley and I live in the same village, and he taught me a lot about local history. We discussed walking groups, jazz clubs, and other local activities. The projects really filled a void for me. I used to call my grandad every single day, twice a day, and regularly talk to my mum on the phone too. After he passed, I suddenly had no one to phone. The projects really made a difference, not just for the members but for me as well."


How to make new connections in your community

Join a local choir or music group

Singing in a choir or playing in a local music group offers a great way to bond with people over shared creativity. Even if you’re not musically inclined, most community choirs or music clubs welcome people at all skill levels. These simple, everyday actions can help you meet new people, form deeper connections, and feel more integrated into your local community.


Maelstrom, all-male choir and Marmalade supporters, explain: "Singing is a proven method for increasing well-being and a fabulous way to expand your circle of friends. Don't hesitate—take a leap of faith."


How to make new connections in your community
Bristol And Somerset Dog Walks  - Instagram

Make furry friends

If you have a dog, take them for a walk in local parks. Pets are natural conversation starters. Even if you don’t have a pet, offer to walk a friend’s dog, or join BorrowMyDoggy (connecting dog owners with trusted local dog sitters and walkers across the UK) or The Cinnamon Trust , a UK charity that matches volunteers up with pets of older and terminally ill people for walking, vet visits and short term foster care. You could also consider volunteering at an animal shelter to meet other local animal lovers.


You could also try a dog meet-up group! These gatherings are a fantastic chance to socialise, not just for your dog, but for you too. You'll find dog meet-up groups all across the UK. Most are open to everyone, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere. Some groups cater to specific interests, like singles or particular dog breeds. For instance, in my local park, there's a dachshund group that meets every Saturday morning. Instagram and Facebook are a good place to find a group too. If you live in Bristol, you could try: Bristol And Somerset Dog Walks 


How to make new connections in your community

Start conversations in everyday places

Small talk may feel awkward at times, but it can open the door to bigger conversations. Chatting with the barista at your coffee shop or the person in line at the grocery store is a great way to engage with people you might otherwise pass by. Over time, these simple exchanges can become more meaningful.


If you’re a parent, consider sparking a conversation with someone at a play park, a play café, or at the school gates. A simple "How old is your little one?" or "Loving his wellies – where did you get those?" can be handy starters. These shared moments are opportunities to connect with others who are likely in similar stages of life.


"I started a conversation with another mum at the park. We discovered that not only do our kids share the same birthday, but we live two roads apart! I was nervous to suggest it but eventually just asked if I could take her number. We've met up loads of time now. I still feel really proud of myself for doing that." Kirsty, 29



How to make new connections in your community

Join a local sports group

We all know exercise is great for physical and mental health but it can also be a powerful way to connect with others. Whether it’s joining a local 5-a-side football group, playing walking football, trying out netball, or taking part in Parkrun, being active with others can create a shared sense of purpose and fun. Alex, 42, says:

"I was already running a lot, but always alone. I decided to come along to a Parkrun locally and I loved the atmosphere. In the past few months, I've been to every event and I enjoy seeing the power of community and being active without competition."


If you’re not into running, consider joining a walking group, mountain biking, or another sport. The important thing is finding an activity you enjoy while sharing the experience with others. The Ramblers, Outdoor Swimming Society or local tennis and badminton clubs are other options too.


How to make new connections in your community

Shop local

Supporting local businesses not only helps your high street thrive, but it also fosters a sense of community. Shopping locally also gives you the chance to interact with shop owners and fellow customers, building a sense of belonging in your neighbourhood.


As Andy, 59, explains: "It's not easy to resist the ease of the supermarket, but where I can, I try to shop in the specialist shops on my high street: bookshop for books, grocers for fruit and veg, charity shop for clothes, hardware shop for a lightbulb, etc. Investing in the community makes me feel like I belong here, and it often works out cheaper."


How to make new connections in your community

Join a WhatsApp group

In today’s digital age, even virtual groups can lead to meaningful in-person connections.


John, 48, shares his experience:"I joined a WhatsApp group for dads who have kids with Downs Syndrome. Every day someone will ask a parenting question, share their frustrations or recommendations for things to do or places to go as a family. I went along to a Saturday morning meet up and had a good time. Definitely recommend to other parents!"


These kinds of groups, whether they’re for parents, hobbyists, or neighbours, can help you connect with others and get involved in local activities.


How to make new connections in your community

Lend a hand

"Need a hand?" is a simple phrase that can change someone’s day. Whether it’s helping an elderly couple with their shopping bags or assisting a parent with a pram, offering help can create a bond of kindness and gratitude. It’s a small gesture with a big impact. Offering your seat to someone less able to stand on public transport or in a crowded café is also an act of kindness that makes someone feel seen.


How to make new connections in your community

Attend local events

Many local councils, churches, and community centres host events like fairs, talks, or group activities. Attending these events not only gives you a chance to get out but also to meet people in your area who share similar interests. From book clubs to exercise classes, these activities can foster lasting friendships. Look on noticeboards in local cafes, libraries or supermarkets for what's on, or search sites like Eventbrite for opportunities. A cooking, art, dance or language class is a great way to meet like-minded individuals.


How to make new connections in your community

Clean up your community

Organising or joining a local litter-picking group is a fantastic way to improve your surroundings while connecting with neighbours. It’s a collaborative effort that brings people together for a common cause, and along the way, you’ll likely meet others who care about your local area.


"I hated the way rubbish collected at the side of the road in our local park. I made some really simple posters which said I was going to be litter picking at 10am on Satruday morning, and that anyone was welcome to join. 3 neighbours came (who I'd never met) and we all went for a pint when we were finished!" Priya, 63


Many towns have communal gardening projects where volunteers can help tend to local green spaces. Joining a garden is not only relaxing and rewarding, but you’ll also have opportunities to meet and chat with people who care about the community’s environment.




Do you have any tips to share with our community? We'd love to hear from you! Comment below with your ideas.


 

How to start a conversation with a stranger

If you’re ready to start a conversation with a stranger, but worried about what to say, know that you’re not alone. Here are some things that I do:

  • Get them to talk first, by asking a question. Where did you get that beautiful cupcake? What’s your dog’s name? Why are you wearing airplane earrings? Would you recommend that drink? Is this the queue for the number 16 bus?

  • Start talking yourself, possibly by commenting on something you have in common. This is the reason we talk about the weather so much! If you are considering starting a conversation with someone, you are necessarily in the same place as them: in a park where you can point out the spring flowers or the playful dogs; at an event where you can talk about the shared interest that brought you there; in a queue at the same shop, where you can point out the absurdity of the fact that the shop is simultaneously displaying Halloween and Christmas decorations.

 

If your social network is not meeting your needs for connection, then you might want to consider expanding your network. Although many people worry about talking to strangers, it might help to remember that all friends start as strangers. Academic research has consistently shown that talking to strangers goes better than most people think. With a little practice, you might just come to enjoy it as much as I have.


Advice by Gillian Sandstrom for Marmalade Trust. Read more >

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