Coniston Connect: Bringing People Together in Patchway
Helping older people feel less alone, build friendships and enjoy being part of their community.
At Coniston Community Centre, we believe everyone deserves friendship, companionship and a place where they feel welcome.
This is why we started Coniston Connect in June 2024. A friendly and welcoming social and activities club for people aged 55+.
Following the Covid-19 pandemic, we noticed many older people in Patchway were spending more time at home and feeling alone. Local GPs were also seeing more older people who needed support to reconnect with others.
With funding from St Monica’s Trust, we created a group to help them rebuild their confidence, meet others and enjoy being part of their community again.
A friendly place to meet people
We know transport and the cost of food can stop people from going out. We arranged subsidised cooked lunches and transport to support more people to join in.
Our Tuesday sessions soon became full, so we added a second session on Thursdays.
There is something for everyone, including seated exercises, arts and crafts, jigsaws and games. People can also enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, a chat and a freshly prepared lunch.
Our friendly volunteers help everyone feel welcome and included. And Four Towns & Vale community minibus make it easier for people with mobility difficulties to join us.
“Just being here gives me company”
Pauline, 88, lives alone and comes to Coniston Connect every Tuesday.
“My carers can only spend 20 minutes with me, so I spend most of my time on my own. I have arthritis in my hands, so I don’t always take part in the activities. But I really enjoy sitting with everyone, having my dinner and listening to people.
“I do not always need to join in. Just being here, hearing people talk and being around others gives me company.”
Pauline moved to a flat near our centre two years ago. This has made it easier for her to attend and become more active.
Her story reminds us that social connection is not always about taking part in activities. Sometimes, simply being around other people can help reduce loneliness and isolation.
“Coniston Connect is a lifeline for me”
Anne also values the friendships and routine the group brings.
“Coming to Coniston Connect is a lifeline for me. I live on my own, so it gives me a chance to get out, see people and make friends. Everyone is so friendly.
“I look forward to coming each week. It is now part of my routine and I enjoy spending time with people my own age.”
Anne enjoys jigsaws, dominoes and colouring, but says the connection with other people means the most.
She has even met a neighbour of 30 years, but they had never spoke until joining the group!
Helping older people stay connected
We are proud of the difference Coniston Connect is making. Older people are building friendships, finding a reason to get out and feel more connected with their community.
With support from funders, including St Monica’s Trust and Brabazon, we work hard to keep our activities affordable despite rising costs.
We want more older people to enjoy the benefits of friendship, good food, pursuing activities together while having a welcoming place to meet.
Would you or someone you know benefit from Coniston Connect? We would love to hear from you.
