Our Never Alone programme is designed to provide support for loneliness and other emotional and practical needs plus promote general wellbeing. We have recommendations to local groups who may be able to help you. Finding the right one that meets your needs or interests can be very fulfilling and truly boost your mood.

If you have a local group you would like to add to the listing below, please submit your details via the Google form here.

Social

Friendly, welcoming social groups can be relaxed and informal and offer the chance to chat and build new friendships.

We recommend local social groups and clubs for women and men which provide entertainment, conversation and a range of social activities.

Friendship Group

Every meeting we play a number of games, cards etc. If anyone does not wish to do this, there is an option to just sit and chat. We then have coffee/tea and biscuits and mostly all of the members elect to go for lunch at a chosen venue. Taking place on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 10.30am

Venue/Location: Room 3, Priory Methodist Church, 63 Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ

Coffee Morning

Drop in for cuppa, cake and conversation from 10am to 12pm at Sandy Parish Church. There is a cost of £2.

Arts & Crafts

Would you like to get stuck in with an arts project or learn a new craft?

There is so much choice when it comes to arts clubs from painting to pottery making. We can help you find the best group for you.

Craft and Chat

Join us in the Church rooms for Craft & Chat. £3 each, bring a craft or learn a new one. Refreshments are available.

Walking

Walking is a popular choice both for relaxation and fitness. If you would like to get outside a little more, it can quickly become an enjoyable activity, and there are many groups in your area who would love you to join them for beautiful country walks.

Sandy Bay Walking Group

Sandy Bay residents are invited to join a walking group on Monday mornings at 10am, meeting outside the Sandy Bay Bar, the group will take a leisurely stroll together to get some fresh air, light exercise and nice chat.

Ivel Valley Walkers

We are an open and friendly community of walkers who love to explore the outdoors, stay active and connect with others.

Books

If you are interested in meeting fellow bookworms, there are reading groups in most towns for friendly discussions and thought-provoking debates. We can help pinpoint the perfect book group for you in your area.

Let's Talk About Books

A chance to come along and talk about books you have read and pick up recommendations. The group will start by talking about the books members have been reading. You need to be a member of U3a to join the group.

Hobbies

Having a wide choice of groups to pick up an old hobby or start a new one can be a wonderful way to meet new people with a similar interest to you.

We recommend local groups and clubs ranging from chess, bridge, poker, bingo, knitting, to bowls.

Knit & Natter

Every Tuesday from 2pm to 4pm at Sandy Library, all are welcome to come along for a knit & natter session.

Board Games

The Sandy Bay Board Games & Cards club meet on Wednesday afternoons in the Sandy Bay bar. Please come and join us for a few hours of fun. For more information, please contact the below.

Music & Theatre

Would you like to join an amateur dramatics group or a choir?

Exploring music can be good for the soul. You can join music appreciation classes or join the church choir. Dancing is also a wonderful way to meet new people and have fun.

St. Swithun's Singers

A very friendly community choir, we love singing, enjoy our rehearsals and sing a mix of sacred and secular pieces at two concerts a year, Summer and Christmas. We always are open to welcoming new members.

Sandy Community Choir

Local amateur choir taking place on Wednesdays at 7.30pm to 9pm during school term times at Sandy Baptist Church.

Never Alone can help you find the advice and support you need