Hello Everyone – Did you know that connection really makes a difference

We often talk about connection as one of the Five Ways to Wellbeing, and for good reason. Research shows that having strong social connections is not just “nice to have” – it is essential for both our mental and physical health. Studies highlight that social connection is a key predictor of wellbeing and even longevity, while loneliness can significantly increase the risk of depression and poorer physical health.

In England, around 22% of adults say they feel lonely at least some of the time, and those experiencing loneliness are more likely to have poor health outcomes.
We also know that people who feel lonely are more than twice as likely to experience depression.

So connection really does matter — not just emotionally, but physically too.

Why this matters so much for carers

For unpaid carers, staying connected can feel particularly difficult.

Caring is something we do with love and commitment, but it can also come at a cost. Many carers:

• Reduce working hours or leave employment
• Drift away from friendships or social networks
• Spend long periods at home or in hospital settings
• Put their own needs to one side

Over time, this can create a sense of isolation — even when you’re never physically alone.

And this is why connection is not just helpful for carers — it’s vital.

Connection in action – what we see every day at CCTH

One of the things I’m most proud of is how the Wellbeing Academy creates spaces for connection to happen naturally.

As highlighted in our work, connecting with others helps improve mental wellbeing and reduces social isolation.

We see this every week through:

• Peer support groups where carers can talk openly
• Walking and talking sessions that combine movement and conversation
• Creative activities where people connect without pressure
• Drop-ins and shared spaces that simply bring people together

These aren’t just activities — they are lifelines into community, confidence, and shared understanding.

The power of peer connection – “people who just get it”

Something really powerful happened during COVID that continues today.

Carers started creating their own WhatsApp groups and peer networks, staying in touch, checking in on each other, sharing advice, and celebrating small wins.

What started as a way to cope became something much bigger —
a community, built by carers, for carers.

Because there is something unique about talking to someone who truly understands.
No explanation needed. No judgement. Just shared experience.

I see this every time I attend the bereavement group — how important it is to be surrounded by people who get it. That sense of being understood can be healing in ways that are hard to put into words.

A personal reflection

For me, connection through caring has had a very personal meaning.

My caring role has allowed me to build a deeper connection with my sister. It’s not always easy, but there are moments of closeness, understanding and shared experience that I genuinely value.

There’s something powerful about that —
how even in challenging circumstances, caring can bring connection, love, and meaning.

Looking ahead – your chance to shape what comes next

Connection is not something that just happens — it’s something we build together.

That’s why I want to invite you to next week’s Carers Forum, where carers will have the opportunity to help decide which two CREATE arts courses we will deliver over the coming year.

Wednesday 20th May 2026 

11am – 1pm

Hybrid (join online or in person) 

if you cannot make it in person then click this link at 11am on Wednesday  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7339417664?omn=82303417032

This is your space to:

• Share your ideas
• Shape future activities
• Connect with other carers
• Have your voice heard

Final thought

Connection doesn’t have to be big or complicated.
Sometimes it’s just:

• A conversation
• A shared cup of tea
• A message saying “how are you?”

But those small moments add up — and they can make a real difference.

If you’re a carer reading this, just know:
you are not alone — and you don’t have to do this on your own.