The Common Room Series

Session #1
Small Actions, Big Impact: Let’s Face Loneliness Together
Tuesday 8th December, 7pm- 8.15pm

When the clocks went back in November, and the UK entered its eighth month of social distancing, as many as 8% of us reported feeling often or always lonely. All age groups have been affected, with 16 to 29-year-olds twice as likely as the over-70s to have experienced loneliness during the pandemic.

But a story of loneliness isn’t the only story of the year. 2020 has also seen an incredible rise in community activism, with recent evidence suggesting a big rise in the number of us who think that through our own decisions and actions, we can make a real difference. We want to highlight the potential of local action to meet the challenge of loneliness in our communities, and fuel a UK-wide movement of people who champion the power of connection.

Join us for our first-ever Common Room session, where we’ll explore how you and your community can respond powerfully to the challenge of loneliness. In this session you will:

• Connect with others who share your wish to tackle loneliness practically and creatively.
• Put your experience into context by understanding the broader picture of loneliness in the UK.
• Be inspired by new and creative ideas of how to build connections across your community.

Whether you’re an experienced community activist, or someone thinking to get involved for the first time, this session is for you.

About the Common Room
The Common Room brings together people from across the UK who share a passion for building stronger, more connected communities. With a little expert guidance and plenty of space to exchange ideas, Common Room sessions will connect you with others, and leave you feeling energised to tackle loneliness and bridge divides in your community. There’s no experience necessary, and everyone is welcome!

About the hosts
Emily Danby is Communities Manager at the Jo Cox Foundation where she supports our growing network of More in Common groups. With over a decade’s experience of supporting community activists, Emily believes firmly in the power of communities to resolve local issues creatively.

Iona Lawrence advises charities and philanthropists on strategies to strengthen relationships and connections in communities. Previously she was founding Director of the Jo Cox Foundation and together with Jo’s friends and family campaigned successfully for the appointment of the Minister for Loneliness and set up the Great Get Together.