Social Well-being CIC, based in Up Holland, aims to prevent social isolation by organising activities and day trips for local community members.

The group was set up in 2021 by Louise Marsh as a response to Covid-19, during which social isolation significantly increased.

Louise had previously worked with other CICs providing activities for people with disabilities, so with that knowledge and experience, and she went on to set something up that would benefit the wider community.

Working alongside Up Holland Community Hub, she organises events and activities that bring people together, saying, “One thing I was keen to do was to help people enjoy days out together, something that those who live alone or those that don’t drive may not have the chance to do.”

The trips include visits to theatre shows, well-being walks, Christmas markets, visits to historical locations and even wild swimming!

Inside a friendship group that Louise also set up, members began showing an interest in becoming volunteers and committee members to help facilitate other activities and groups.

Lousie said, “We now have a timetable of activities that we run for all members based at the Community Hub in St Thomas the Martyr Church, as well as a group for adults with learning disabilities and their carers at Fur Clemt in Wigan.”

Activities include a Craft & Chat group every Thursday, a Well-being group on Monday, and a fortnightly bingo evening every other Wednesday.

As Louise points out, “We have seen lots of new friendships blossom, and many members have told us that the group has helped to improve their mental health too greatly.” However, without the help of volunteers such as Olivia Short, who shares her energy and creative ideas to help change the lives of those who attend, the CIC would not be able to continue.

If you’d like to find out more about Social Well-being CIC, you can check out their Facebook page at @SocialWellbeingCIC