Let’s Connect – It’s Good For Our Health

Loneliness and social isolation have a huge impact on our health; so much so, that The World Health Organization (WHO) currently has an international commission on social connection to help recognise the global threat of loneliness and springboard action around the world.

Meeting up with friends, families or people in our local community has very big benefits for our mental wellbeing, but did you know that there’s also a biological link between isolation and our physical health?

Well, new research published earlier this year by scientists at University of Cambridge and Fudan University in China suggests social contact may keep us healthy because it gives our immune systems a boost and cuts the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

Coming Together Across Cambridgeshire

Here at Cambridgeshire ACRE, we’re committed to helping rural communities connect across Fenland, South Cambs and East Cambs through our Cambridgeshire Community Hubs scheme.

Our chain of more than 40 Community Hubs knows the importance of social connection and every week, our amazing volunteers welcome hundreds of local people through their doors.

There’s space for all, especially those who may not have friends and family of their own, don’t have connections nearby or who might find socialising stressful or intimidating.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, a simple face-to-face chat or a listening ear over a cuppa is often just what’s needed. Every day of the week, our Hub teams welcome Cambridgeshire folk, make tea and introductions and offer free information, support and advice. Many also run a great selection of activities –although there’s no pressure to join in.

Appreciation of Our Local Hubs

At Duxford, in South Cambridgeshire, carer Carol loves the Wednesday hub sessions.  “It’s one of the nicest groups I’ve ever been to.  I love the company here. You can just be yourself.  If you want to talk you can, if you don’t, that’s fine too.”

Added another regular: “Coming here has really helped get me out of the house again when

my husband died. They are such nice, caring people.”

“It’s been a real lifeline for me,” confided one Hub attendee at Cambourne.  “I didn’t really know anyone here before and it’s helped me get out and into a routine.”

Come and Join Us!

Would you, or someone you know, like to be a part of our community hubs?

We offer good company, refreshments and advice and information on things like health and care services, cost of living, energy bills, connections to local groups and help applying for benefits, food vouchers, Blue Badges and bus passes.

All our information and advice is free, independent and confidential.

Discover your local Cambridgeshire Community Hub here.