This year’s Great Christmas Get Together is off to a fantastic start, with people across the country coming together to share a #MincePieMoment.
We are thrilled to see people reaching out to those in their community who may be feeling lonely at this time of year and in doing so, helping to build more connected communities.
From London to Yorkshire, the pictures we have received and stories we have heard are a testament to Jo’s belief that we have more in common than that which divides us.
Last week, we were delighted to welcome MPs from all sides to our Mince Pie Moments Parliamentary reception, to share experiences and celebrate the progress made since Jo founded the Loneliness Commission over 2 years ago during her time as an MP.
Mims Davies MP, the new Minister for Loneliness, emphasised the need to work collaboratively to tackle loneliness, sharing:
“The message here is #MoreInCommon and more than ever before, we need to be cross-party, cross-chamber, and cross-country.”
Kim Leadbeater, Jo’s sister shared:
“Even in the middle of chaos and uncertainty, there are always things we can do to make a difference, especially when it comes to loneliness.”
There is still time for you to take part and we have highlighted plenty of suggestions of how to get started on the Great Get Together website. You can follow our loneliness advent calendar for daily simple actions that can make a big difference.
Tips include calling an old friend, inviting your neighbours for dinner or volunteering with some of the fantastic loneliness-tackling initiatives around the country.
We would love for you spread the message by using #MincePieMoments on social media and look at what others are doing for further inspiration.
In this final week before Christmas, there is a part we can all play to ensure no one is left feeling lonely this Christmas and build closer, more compassionate communities.