When it comes to what makes us happy in life, spending time with others can play a big difference in how we feel.
However, loneliness can impact any of us. It affects people across all ages, groups, and backgrounds in our communities across Burnley. In fact, research from the World Health Organisation shows that one in four adults experiences loneliness at some point in life – and behind these numbers are real people, facing real struggles.
At Calico Homes, we understand the importance of being involved in your community and building connections with others. Whether you’re looking for opportunities to meet new people or you want to be more involved in your community, we’re here to help.
Discover Your Perfect Community Group
Calico Homes is proud to be a part of Burnley Together, a partnership of organisations offering information and support services to our community. If you’re feeling lonely, Burnley Together can help guide you to the right services, drop-in sessions, and community activities.
Do you imagine yourself enjoying a warm cup of tea and toast at Toasty Tuesdays, where you can chat with friendly faces or do you picture yourself joining the walk and talk group at Towneley Park every Thursday and meeting new people. These are just a few examples of the range of groups and clubs available that you may be interested in to help manage your feelings of loneliness.
For a full timetable of activities, visit Burnley Together or call into Down Town for a chat.
Community Centres That Bring Us Together
Our community centres, including Valley Street and Burnley Wood, are places of activity and connection. They offer classes and clubs for all ages, such as 5 Ways Boxing, Knitting Club, and Lunch Club. These centres are places where you can make friendships, learn new skills and be part of a community spirit.
Share Your Ideas and Improve Your Community
If you are struggling to find groups or classes that don’t quite fit your interests, we want to hear from you. Your feedback is important to us, and we want to make decisions that reflect that the community wants. If you have suggestions for community groups, events, or activities that would like to see in your area, please contact us at customers@calico.org.uk.
Calico Community Choice: Your Voice, Your Budget
We’re excited to have recently introduced a new project to invest in our communities: ‘Calico Community Choice: Your Voice, Your Budget’. This project gives community members the chance to support and fund local projects that you think matter most. Whether you want to start your own community group or support an existing project, this is your chance to make a difference.
In our first round of voting, the community chose to fund Casual Minds Matter, Warm Hearts, Warm Spaces (run by the Community Grocery), and Burnley Wood Community dance classes, with each receiving between £800-2000. We’re continuing to visit and support community groups in the area and encourage more to put themselves forward if they are interested.
To learn more about how to get involved or to submit a bid for funding, contact us at customers@calico.org.uk.