The event was inspired by similar events in the UK run by the Jo Cox Foundation, which is a UK-based charity dedicated to strengthening communities, combatting loneliness, and encouraging connection and respect between people.
‘We’ve run it three times so far. It’s just a great opportunity for bringing the community together,’ said the library’s community and wellbeing lead Jackie Burgess.
‘It’s just ideal to have it in the library because we have the facilities and it’s an important community space.’
Activities at the Great Get Together included mindful colouring, instruction in crochet, guided meditation and seated volleyball – an accessible version of the classic game played with an enormous balloon in place of the ball.
‘We came last year, and my daughter loved it, so she wanted to come back’ said Nina Hecklemann, in between noble lunges at the balloon volleyball. We loved that it was so inclusive. I’m an occupational therapist, and it’s got me thinking about how this could be done in residential homes and stuff like that.’
The event, hosted in the library’s Hayward Room, was entirely free, and saw all activities accompanied by tea and cake.
‘It’s all about communities getting together and combatting loneliness,’ said reading and engagement lead Tracey Woosley.
‘We’re hoping that people will have a chance to spend time with some new people and maybe even start making friends.’
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