Many people feel lonely or socially isolated at some time in their lives. Loneliness and isolation can happen at any age and can often be triggered by a big life change such as bereavement, divorce or separation, losing a job or retirement. There are a whole host of clubs and groups you can join to get out and meet people, which you can find out about in our Leisure and culture and Community and environment sections of the directory.
There are also local and national groups and services that support people who are lonely or isolated, including:
- The Silver Line. A 24 hour, free and confidential helpline providing information, friendship and support to older people.
The Silver Line.
Call: 0800 4708090. - Re-engage. Provides vital, life-enhancing social connections for people over 75. They are most famous for their monthly Sunday tea parties which take place in volunteers’ homes. You will even be taken there and home again so you don’t need to worry about organising travel. You can also sign up for a regular friendly chat over the phone with your very owncall companion. All services are free.
Re-engage.
Call: 0800 716543. - Sheffield Churches Council for Community Care (SCCCC) provides a Good Neighbours Scheme for the over 65’s. Their volunteers offer the kind of support a good neighbour might give.
SCCCC: Good neighbour scheme.
Call: 0114 250 5292. - b:friend. Volunteer visiting for people over 65.
b:friend.
Call: 07523 698530. - Ending Forever Isolation. A safe space for elderly people in Sheffield to have a cuppa, take part in activities and meet new friends. Held on a Wednesday at Blades Family Hub, Bramall Lane.
Call Josh on 07949 375726. - Good Gym Sheffield will try to source a local runner/walker who can call into for a chat and tea/coffee or to do a minor task like putting up curtains.
Good Gym Sheffield. - MHA live later life well offer befriending, lunch clubs, assisted shopping, activity and friendship sessions, outings, escorts to appointments and much more.
MHA live later life well.
Call: 07568 612 067.
If you’re feeling lonely or isolated because you’re caring for someone, you can contact Sheffield Carers Centre for support.
If you’re caring for someone with dementia, there are a host of activities for you and the person you care for to take part in.
You can also contact Age UK Sheffield if you’re over 50. They have a range of groups and activities you can join.