Addressing the issue of loneliness
According to census data, around 24% of adults in Bassetlaw have reported that they feel lonely with a further 7.6% reporting that they often or always feel lonely. Recognising these concerns, Muslim Charity and Bassetlaw District Council has identified the need for community spaces that encourage social interaction. Bassetlaw has also seen an increase in its elderly population, with 22.33% of its residents aged 65 and over, compared to the England average of 19.43%. This ageing population can also be a contributing factor to loneliness statistics in our district.
‘Happy To Chat’ benches – a joint initiative
In partnership with Bassetlaw District Council, Muslim Charity has funded nine ‘Happy to Chat’ benches that have recently been installed at key locations frequented by elderly residents in the district.
These benches serve as a welcoming space for community members to sit and chat, fostering connections and alleviating feelings of loneliness. They can be found in:
- Langold Country Park (2 benches)
- Costhorpe Cricket Ground (Carlton Cricket Club)
- Costhorpe Sports Field
- Tom Simpson Field, Harworth
- Snipe Park, Harworth
- London Road (near Whinney Moor Lane), Retford
- Pocket Park, corner of Sandy Lane and Gateford Road, Worksop (2 benches)
As part of Loneliness Awareness Week – 9th to 15th June 2025 the Tackling Loneliness Collaborative (TLC) will be ‘spotlighting’ each of these benches and meeting with different members of the public.
Read more here
🌍✨And they were recently featured on The BBC’s One Show! See it here:
📺 Muslim Charity Featured on BBC’s The One Show | Happy to Chat Benches Tackling Loneliness