Four new Loneliness Champions recognised in Mid and East Antrim
Wednesday 21 January 2026
Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network has recognised four new members as Loneliness Champions.
A Loneliness Champion is someone who uses their knowledge, skills and experience, along with training, to positively impact the lives of others and help reduce loneliness and isolation within the Borough.
Certificates were presented to Daniel McCurdy, Debbie Chestnut, Valerie Guthrie and Samantha Peden by Chairperson of the Loneliness Network, Marjorie Hawkins, in Larne Town Hall.
A Loneliness Champion helps to reduce loneliness and isolation in their local area by:
- developing and building relationships within the local community
- raising awareness about loneliness and social isolation
- helping to reduce the stigma of loneliness by talking and discussing loneliness openly
- sharing information about relevant opportunities for people to engage
- providing key information, advice, support and encouragement to colleagues within the voluntary, community and statutory sectors
- promoting key initiatives within Mid and East Antrim including Chatty Benches, Chatty Cafes, Chatty Walks and the Kindness Postbox
Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network launched in December 2019 and is made up of a range of community voluntary and statutory organisations who all work together to prevent and address loneliness.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said: “I commend our newest Loneliness Champions for their commitment to supporting others and tackling loneliness across our Borough.
“Their efforts and dedication will help make a real difference to those who may unfortunately be at risk of feeling isolated.
“Loneliness is something we can all work to alleviate and our champions do an excellent job of leading the way and raising awareness of how we can all play a part.”
Chairperson Marjorie Hawkins said: “Nobody should be lonely in Mid and East Antrim.
“We believe that loneliness is not inevitable. People of all ages need connections that matter.
“A Loneliness Campion is a person who helps to reduce loneliness and isolation in their daily lives, and we need to work together to end loneliness. By being a Loneliness Champion, you will be an enthusiastic and motivated member of the Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network and be willing to go the ‘extra mile’ to achieve a positive outcome.
“I am delighted to recognise another four Loneliness Champions and look forward to many more people coming forward to be recognised for becoming a catalyst for change in their local communities.”