AN event which encourages the community to come together to tackle social isolation has been launched.

The aim of the campaign, Talk to Me Worcester, is to bring people together through ‘the power of conversation’ and offer opportunities for social change by reducing isolation, building more resilient communities and enhancing the well-being of individuals.

Over 30 people attended the event at Worcester Guildhall on Thursday, January 9, which was organised by community cohesion officer, Basia Ligas.

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Ms Ligas said: “The event worked out really well. We had over 30 people attending, representatives of the different organisations, community groups, as well as members of the public. There was a nice mix of different nationalities too.

“Some of those coming said that they live in isolation and feel lovely, so when they heard about the event, they were keen to pop in. They stayed with us for quite a long time, enjoying hot drinks and lots of interesting conversations.

“The launch is a great example of how a simple idea can help bring people together to meet and chat. There's certainly a need for more of these.”

The campaign hopes to promote friendship and neighbourliness by encouraging positive activities at a street level, at work or within organisations.

As the campaign develops, there will be a number of events taking place in the different neighbourhoods around Worcester.

The campaign is open to any events taking place within the city between January 10 and May 10, in 2020.

The campaign was first launched in January 2019. The 10-week initiative saw more than 1,500 residents joining over 30 different events taking place across the city.

Following the pilot, a decision has been taken to further build on the initiative, and this year has been extended and will last four months. This will allow more organisations to develop and implement events of their choice.

The idea was developed jointly by representatives of several organisations operating across the city: Worcester City Council, Father Hudson’s Care, Reconnections, Worcester Community Trust and Fortis Living.

Organisers of the most innovative and inclusive events will get a plaque awarded to them by the Worcester Mayor, Allah Ditta, at an award ceremony on May 16.

To find out more, visit www.talktomeworcester.com