A community project in Patchway, is helping older residents feel less alone and more connected. Based at Coniston Community Centre, “Coniston Connects” was set up after the Covid-19 pandemic, when many people found it harder to get out and socialise.
Many people in Patchway often face more day-to-day challenges compared to the rest of Bristol and South Gloucestershire. After the pandemic, the staff and Trustees at Coniston Community Centre noticed that many older residents were staying at home. Local GPs were seeing more patients struggling with loneliness. This project was born to help change that.
With funding from St Monica’s Trust, the aim was simple: help older people rebuild confidence and enjoy being part of their community again.
Early conversations showed that two things were stopping people from coming out – transport and the cost of meals. So, Coniston Community Centre introduced low-cost lunches and helped arrange transport to and from the centre.
Since starting in June 2024, the project has grown quickly. The Tuesday sessions are now full, with up to thirty people attending each week. Because of this success, a second session has now been added on Thursdays.
There is something for everyone. Fitness sessions are a big favourite, including gentle seated Tai Chi and “Strong & Steady” classes to help with balance. Others enjoy arts and crafts, jigsaw puzzles, games, or just sitting with a cup of tea and a chat. A home-cooked lunch, including a vegetarian option, is served each day, followed by dessert, which many look forward to.
The atmosphere is warm, friendly and relaxed. A big part of this comes from the volunteers, who greet people as they arrive, serve food and drinks, and spend time chatting to make sure everyone feels included. They also help keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes.
Transport is another key part of the project. A local minibus service (Four Towns & Vale Link Transport) offers door-to-door journeys, making it possible for people who might otherwise stay at home to come along and join in.
The difference it is making is clear. Many people say they feel happier, more confident and less isolated. Friendships have formed, and some now meet up outside the sessions or take part in other activities together.
There are some powerful personal stories too. Sue, who once felt deeply low and isolated, now joins in with activities and has made new friends. Elizabeth, who had not left her home for years, now joins regularly and enjoys being part of conversations. Others say they feel they have a reason to get up and go out again.
Despite rising cost, the centre tries its best to keep prices low with thanks to the kind support of funders, which includes St Monica’s Trust and the Quartet Foundation.
Looking ahead, there are plans to add more activities, including ones focused on health and staying active. For now, “Coniston Connects” is doing something simple but important. It gives local people a place to meet, share a meal, enjoy some activities together and feel part of their community again.
To find out more, please contact Coniston Community Centre on:
