Local champions step up to tackle loneliness across Mid and East Antrim

(L-R) Samantha Peden, Cullybackey Community Partnership; Valerie Guthrie, Alzheimer’s UK; Daniel McCurdy, Libraries NI; Marjorie Hawkins, Chair MEA Loneliness Network; Debbie Chestnutt, Good Morning Ballymena; Sabrina Lynn, NHSCT. (Image: Bernie McAllister)

Four individuals have been formally recognised for their commitment to tackling loneliness and social isolation across Mid and East Antrim, as the local Loneliness Network welcomed four new Loneliness Champions.

Daniel McCurdy, Debbie Chestnut, Valerie Guthrie and Samantha Peden were presented with certificates at a ceremony in Larne Town Hall by Chairperson of the Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network, Marjorie Hawkins.

A Loneliness Champion is someone who uses their knowledge, skills and lived experience, alongside specialist training, to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Champions work within their communities to reduce loneliness and isolation, helping to foster meaningful connections and promote inclusive, supportive environments across the borough.

Their role includes developing and strengthening local relationships, raising awareness of loneliness and social isolation, and helping to reduce stigma by encouraging open conversations.

Champions also share information about opportunities for people to engage socially, provide advice and encouragement within the voluntary, community and statutory sectors, and promote key local initiatives such as Chatty Benches, Chatty Cafes, Chatty Walks and the Kindness Postbox.

The Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network, which launched in December 2019, brings together a wide range of community, voluntary and statutory organisations. Working collaboratively, the network aims to prevent and address loneliness among people of all ages throughout the borough.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, praised the newly recognised champions and highlighted the importance of their work.

“I commend our newest Loneliness Champions for their commitment to supporting others and tackling loneliness across our Borough,” he said.

“Their efforts and dedication will help make a real difference to those who may unfortunately be at risk of feeling isolated.

“Loneliness is something we can all work to alleviate and our champions do an excellent job of leading the way and raising awareness of how we can all play a part.”

Chairperson Marjorie Hawkins said the network is driven by a clear belief that loneliness can be challenged through collective action and compassion.

“Nobody should be lonely in Mid and East Antrim,” she said.

“We believe that loneliness is not inevitable. People of all ages need connections that matter.

“A Loneliness Campion is a person who helps to reduce loneliness and isolation in their daily lives, and we need to work together to end loneliness. By being a Loneliness Champion, you will be an enthusiastic and motivated member of the Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network and be willing to go the ‘extra mile’ to achieve a positive outcome.

“I am delighted to recognise another four Loneliness Champions and look forward to many more people coming forward to be recognised for becoming a catalyst for change in their local communities.”

The recognition of the four new champions highlights the growing effort across Mid and East Antrim to build stronger, more connected communities and ensure that no one feels alone or overlooked.