In May 2021, it was reported by The Guardian that ‘a million people over 65 in the UK are likely to remain at risk of chronic loneliness despite the easing of restrictions’. In the same month, the government released its network action plan to tackle loneliness, recognising the need to support people’s physical and mental health.
Over the past year, Mirthy has helped over 30,000 people connect and stay mentally and physically active through their easy to access and affordable online events aimed at the over 50’s age group. A survey run by Mirthy showed an increase of almost two-thirds of users who would now use technology to attend online events and classes compared to before the pandemic. The same survey also showed an increase of over half of users who would now use technology to make new friends/connections online.
Mirthy members have said the following:
“I have enjoyed immensely the talks from Mirthy. It really does make you feel like you are in touch with the real world!” – Hilary D’Ettorre
“Not very often that I laugh out loud when I’m on my own, but I did today! Thank you” – Mirthy Member
From the 14th – 18th of June 2021, Mirthy will be hosting the ‘Festival of Belonging 2021!’ – 5 days of free online events in support of Marmalade Trust’s Loneliness Awareness Week.
From Storytelling to Belly Dancing, DIY poetry to Laughing Yoga, all events will be highly interactive, focused on building the sense of belonging throughout the community. All donations received throughout the festival will be given to the Marmalade Trust; the UK’s leading loneliness charity for all ages and the only charity in the world specifically dedicated to raising awareness of loneliness.
The team at Mirthy would be delighted if you would share the above on your social networks. All relevant links to view and attend the programme of events are below:https://www.mirthy.co.uk/festival-of-belonging/
