Making Connections Walsall is a free service which supports residents who may be feeling lonely or socially isolated by helping them connect with groups, activities and support available within their local community. The service is open to residents of all ages and provides personalised support through community-based social prescribers. It is funded by Walsall Council’s Community Development team, working closely with local voluntary and community organisations across the borough.

The service has now relaunched with a dedicated community organisation leading the service in each of the four localities (north, south, east and west), bringing the service closer to where residents are.

Making Connections Walsall helps to reduce the time spent searching for community projects and services to address loneliness and isolation in Walsall. It also supports in reducing barriers to participation.

Reducing loneliness and isolation is an important part of healthy ageing. Through Making Connections Walsall, residents can explore their interests, build confidence, make new friendships and connect with activities and support in their local community. The service helps people take positive steps towards staying connected, active and well.

“ Making Connections Walsall is about helping people feel part of their community. Whether it's finding a local group, meeting new people or accessing support, the service helps residents build the connections that can have a real impact on their wellbeing.

We want everyone in Walsall to know that support is available and that there are opportunities across the borough to get involved, make new friendships and stay connected to the people and places around them. “

Councillor Stuart Chapman MBE, Portfolio Holder for Housing Support, Resident Access and Communities
Walsall Council

Referrals can be made by a wide range of individuals including a GP, a health and social care professional and other public sector workers. Residents and their families or friends can self-refer into the service. Social prescribers are based across Walsall's east, west, north and south localities and work with residents to identify activities, groups and opportunities that match their interests and needs.

To find out more about Making Connections Walsall or make a referral, visit the Walsall Council website.

Providers of Making Connections Walsall.

East (Pelsall, Brownhills, Aldridge North and Walsall Wood, Rushall-Shelfield, Aldridge Central and South, Pheasey Park Farm and Streetly) - Manor Farm Community Association - info@manorfarmca.com or call 01922 614316

South (St Matthews, Paddock, Palfrey, Pleck) - YMCA Walsall - small.street@ymcabc.org.uk or call 01922 700950

North (Bloxwich East and Blakenall Health, Bloxwich West, Reedswood, Birchills and Leamore and Harden, Goscote and Ryecroft) - Bloxwich Community Partnership - admin@bloxwichcp.co.uk or call 01922 403351

West (Bentley and Darlaston North, Darlaston South, Willenhall, Short Heath, New Invention) - Old Hall Peoples Partnership - info@ohpp.org.uk or call 01922 474684