Together Co is a charity in Brighton that addresses loneliness in their area in a practical and successful way. We made a grant to help fund their highly successful befriending programme.Emily Daniel and Ruth Lumley explained how befriending works.
“Together Co supports people across Brighton and Hove who are experiencing loneliness or social isolation and want to feel a part of their community. They might be struggling with their confidence and connecting with others.
The charity’s befriending socials run monthly at three locations across the city, helping to reach people in different neighbourhoods and reducing barriers to access.
Each session is run by trained staff and volunteers and offers a welcoming, relaxed environment where people can take part in shared activities, conversation and light refreshments.
However, activities are optional and designed to encourage natural interaction, from seated exercises and table games to friendly chats. Importantly, people can get involved at their own pace. This year alone, Together Co has run seated sports activities with RiseLife, an Easter crafting session and a seated yoga and meditation class. This work is made possible through donations from funders which helps to cover transport, venues, materials and volunteer co-ordination, making sessions reliable and accessible.
We aim to deliver services that are thoughtful, consistent and centred on human connection, while allowing it to happen safely.
Roy, who attends our befriending group, said: “I like it because it gets me out of the property. It stops me sitting at home and I meet other people, which I find is quite interesting.”
Through these regular socials, relationships develop gradually and someone who appears quiet at first may start to take part more actively over time.
Marie, who often attends, said: “My advice to anyone feeling lonely is that trying a few meetings and joining a few groups to go out to occasionally can make all the difference.”
We are not simply delivering activities but supporting people who are struggling to integrate into their communities. Behind each session is careful planning, safeguarding, volunteer support and co-ordination.
Emily Daniel, Together Co CEO, said: “We plan carefully; to listen, adapt sessions and make sure people feel safe and respected. Making sure everyone feels they belong has always been at the heart of what we do. Moreover, it shapes our values and our work, evident in the planning by staff and volunteers dedicated to these sessions.”
Loneliness is widespread, affecting people of all ages and Together Co’s practical and professional approach works. We will continue to support this impressive charity over the long term.