Happily CIC hosted a "Happily Together Tea" for the local learning disability community in the aim to combat the increasing issue of loneliness and isolation. The get together was made possible due to funding from UNITED in Hammersmith & Fulham.
The event took place on Friday 21st June at the beautiful Petit Miracles Hub on Shepherds Bush Green. Attendees enjoyed tea, cake and fruit before taking part in various interactive games and activities such as get to know you bingo, jenga and question and answer games. These activities have proved popular in the past at our other events and encourage conversation and interaction
We had a team of friendly volunteers who supported guests to take part in activities and made sure that everyone was feeling comfortable.
The get together proved to be successful with many guests taking the opportunity to meet new people. In fact 92% of attendees spoke to someone they had not met before and 60% felt more confident approaching new people as a result of coming to the tea.
One highlight of the tea was when we all joined in to sing a special rendition of “happily birthday” to Francis who was turning 60. It was lovely to see everyone joining in. Here are some quotes from our tea party guests:
“I enjoyed today and I want to know if there is going to be another tea party soon.” Richie, 29, The Gate.
“Not bad at all…let me know when there is another one and I will come along”. Geoff, 65, Yarrow Housing.
Happily CIC is predominately based in Hammersmith & Fulham and it was important to us to host a get together in the borough. We need to connect with our local community and encourage isolated adults to build relationships with each other.