A SERIES of free craft sessions, coffee mornings and soft play events have been organised by the British Red Cross in Poole to help tackle loneliness and social isolation in the town.

Craft sessions will become a regular part of the charity’s Connecting Communities services, which it launched in 2017 in partnership with the Co-op.

Volunteers offer companionship and support to adults of all ages and backgrounds, helping them meet new people and feel able to be more involved in the local area. This could be through joining community groups or activities, accessing local services, rediscovering friendships or making new ones.

Yana Tomes, a community connector at the Red Cross in Poole, said: “These free sessions are open to anyone who wants to attend. Crafting is very therapeutic and encourages conversations. We looked at activities currently available in Poole and tried to provide something that would benefit the local community that is not already being offered in the area.

“The classes are different every week. We have been decorating flower pots and glass jars, memory boxes and picture frames. We also have plans to make jewellery, gifts, cards, Christmas decorations, so hopefully there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

“I’d urge anyone who might be feeling lonely or a bit isolated to join us at these events. We want people to receive the support they need so that loneliness doesn’t become a chronic way of life. I believe our Connecting Communities service can make a big difference.”

To reach out to potentially lonely young parents, the Red Cross are also providing free soft play facilities at the Allendale Centre in Wimborne on Friday, September 28, and Friday, October 5, from 9am to 11am.

The following craft sessions are taking place:

• Hamworthy Library every Wednesday from 10.30am to 12.30pm

Broadstone Library every Wednesday from 2pm to 4pm

Oakdale Library on the first Friday of the month (times to be confirmed)

Westbourne Library on the second Friday of the month from 10.30am to 12.30pm

A coffee morning will be held at Poole Central Library on Monday, October 1, from 9.30am to 11.30am.