Loneliness Network Listing

Loneliness Awareness Week 2026

Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network are funding the following free events to mark Loneliness Awareness Week from 15 to 21 June 2026. This year's theme is Giving Loneliness a Voice.

Date and Time

Location

Event

Contact details

Monday 15 June, 11am

Jubilee Hall, Carrickfergus Town Hall

Information/Health and Wellbeing Fair organised by NHSCT and Volunteer Now

Information stands from Statutory/Community & Voluntary Groups. Providing information on what is available to people in their community that they can avail of to help alleviate loneliness and/or social isolation.

Drop-in event. Everyone welcome.

Monday 15 June, 9.30am to 4pm

The Outlet, Banbridge

Summer Outing

LCDP have organised a trip to Banbridge Outlet for anyone living in Larne who finds it difficult to get out due to mobility issues, or those who feel isolated, lonely and vulnerable. It will be open to anyone regardless of whether they attend our club or not.

Larne Community Development Project will have a registration form to collect names from the Warm Space Monday Club and anyone living in the Larne area who wishes to book.

£5 required to secure space on the bus. Email deborah@larnecdp.org.uk.

Tuesday 16 June, 10.30am to 12.30pm

Whitehead Library

Connect North Drop-In Sessions

Connect North is an award-winning social prescribing service in the Northern Trust area (including Ballymena) that links adults with local community activities, mental health support, and practical resources to improve overall wellbeing and reduce isolation.

No appointment needed, just call in.

Wednesday 17 June, 10.30am to 12 noon

Holy Trinity Church, Woodburn, Carrickfergus

Setting the scene for future connections

Volunteer Now and Alzheimer's Society are partnering to organise a fun activity event to bring together those most lonely and isolated in our community to take part in Boccia, Laughter Yoga, Dementia information talk and food.

To register, email wenda.gray@volunteernow.co.uk or ring 07850 851 811.

Thursday 18 June 11am to 1pm

97B Queen Street, Ballymena, BT42 2BE

Welcoming new members

Good Morning Ballymena is marking Loneliness Awareness Week by opening their new Queen Street office for friendly connection, conversation, and support. They are creating a warm, welcoming space where local people can drop in, meet others, and feel part of a caring community.

Everyone welcome to call in. Email goodmorningballymena@hotmail.co.uk or ring 028 2564 0720.

Thursday 18 June, 11am

Mill ponds and Shaftesbury Park, Carrickfergus

Meeting at Carrickfergus Leisure Centre car park

Wildlife and Nature Connection “Chatty” Walk

Join us for a leisurely guided stroll around the Mill ponds and Shaftesbury Park, Carrickfergus, followed by a hot drink and socialising. Getting outdoors in the fresh air and interacting with other people can be hugely beneficial for both physical and mental health. We encourage you to attend solo and connect with other people. 

Email play@midandeastantrim.gov.uk for more information

Ballymena Library - Tuesday 16 June, from 2.30pm

Larne Library - Thursday 18 June, from 2pm

Carrickfergus Library - Friday 19 June, from 2pm

Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne Libraries

Photography for Wellbeing: An Introduction with Belfast Exposed

Join Belfast Exposed for a friendly introductory photography session where you can learn basic photography skills, explore your creativity and meet new people. Cameras can be provided if required and no previous experience is necessary.

Adults only. Booking essential.

Places limited to 15 people. To book, please call in to the host library or ring to sign up:

Ballymena Library – 028 2563 3950
Larne Library - 028 2827 7047
Carrickfergus Library - 028 9336 2261

Friday 19 June, 1pm

Martinstown

Walk, Talk and Connect

A light community walk through Martinstown, focusing on loneliness, finishing at the Community Hub with tea and scones and support services. Refreshments and Kindness packs also available.

To enrol or enquire call into the Community Hub, or email: gdcraglenravel@gmail.com, or ring Cormac on 07799 416 866.

Friday 19 June, 10.30am to 12 noon

Mae Murray Foundation Hub
Unit 1, 10 Redlands Crescent, Larne, BT40 1FF

Stay and Play - Loneliness Week

Opportunity for parents/carers and children of all abilities to connect and enjoy refreshments while children play.

Register via the Mae Murray Foundation website.

Friday 19 June, 11am to 1pm

Local shopping centre/cafe

Pages for Good

A volunteer-led craft stand showcasing paper crafts in a local café/ shopping centre, inviting people to pause, create, and connect. The inclusive, low‑cost initiative promotes dignity, builds community ties, and offers a flexible pathway into Agewell’s craft group.

For more information, email ellen.nixon@meaap.co.uk, or ring: 028 2565 8604.

Friday 19 June, 11am to 12 noon

Access Employment Larne (AEL)
2-34 Pound Street, Larne, BT40 1SQ

Foil Embossing Workshop

To support Loneliness Awareness Week, AEL are hosting a one-off workshop on Foil Embossing to create a safe and welcoming space, to promote connection and opportunities to enjoy a craft.

Limited spaces and booking is via the following Google form.

Or ring AEL on 028 2827 4992.