On the internet
For young people
The Mix provides free, confidential help for under 25s online and via a helpline. Call 0808 808 4494, text THEMIX to 85258 or use their online chat service on the website.
Lonely Not Alone this online constellation universe is a safe space for young people to share their stories with other young people, sending messages of support to each other.
NSPCC Building connections - A programme for under 19’s which pairs the young person with a trained befriender to empower them, use tools and build their confidence to help themselves through their loneliness.
For parents
Dadsnet – Dadsnet is a global online parenting platform connecting dads to parenting resources, entertainment and each other.
Mumsnet - Mumsnet is a website for parents in the UK. It hosts discussion forums where users share advice and information on parenting and many other topics.
Mush- A local social network of mums, so that you find other mums nearby, know what's going on, know where to go and organise meetups. Download Mush App
Peanut - An app which allows mothers, women and mothers-to-be to connect with other likeminded individuals in a safe space to find support. This app allows you to connect in forums and in person.
For older people
Gransnet forums - Gransnet is the busiest social networking site for the over 50s.
Gransnet forums: Grandads' shed - Grandads' shed is a space for men over 50.
Royal Voluntary Service Virtual Village Hall A programme of themed online activities designed to enjoy at home such as creative arts and crafts, music and singing, cooking and baking, dance and exercise, and technology skills. Join in with live sessions or catch up on demand when suits it you.
For unpaid carers
Carers UK Forum - Carers UK Forum is a supportive online community of current and former unpaid family carers who understand the ups and downs of caring.
For people with mental ill-health and their family/friends
Side by Side is open to anybody over 18 years who has an experience of mental health problems, or is closely connected to someone that has.
For those who are grieving
Ataloss – provides signposting to local bereavement and counselling services, GriefChat bereavement counsellors as well as practical advice for those recently bereaved.
Good Grief Trust - find stories from people who have been bereaved, practical and emotional support and signposting to a choice of local and national support.
For people of all ages
Frindow - Frindow helps people of all ages make new friends through common interests or circumstances in order to put an end to loneliness.
Meetup - Meetup is an online social networking website/mobile app that facilitates offline group meetings.
Nextdoor - Nextdoor is the free private social network for your neighbourhood community.
By telephone
Age UK: Call in Time - Call in Time - a free telephone befriending service for matching volunteers with older people for up to 30 minutes per week.
NHS Care Volunteer Responder – Volunteers all across Bromley are helping people through befriending over the phone and deliver shopping and essentials if there is a specific health need over a specified period of time.
Macular Society - a telephone befriending service may be especially helpful if you cannot get to one of the Macular Society support group meetings but would like to talk to someone who has experience of macular disease.
The Silver Line - operates the only confidential, free helpline for older people across the UK that's open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Two’s Company Befriending – Chislehurst and Bickley – Referrals can be made by yourself, or through a Social Prescriber for those taking part on the scheme to receive a weekly phone call from a volunteer. There is also an option to opt-in for an in-person weekly visit.
Independent Age – Dedicated weekly ‘Good to know’ groups bring together guest speakers talking on a range of exciting topics, with those on the call encouraged to ask questions and hear other people’s point of view.