Isle of Wight Salvation Army fights loneliness free community events

published on 15 Jun 2026

This Loneliness Awareness Week, The Salvation Army in Isle of Wight is opening its doors wider than ever to offer connection, conversation, and companionship to anyone who may be feeling isolated.

From a friendly Chatty Café to a gentle social walk, the church and charity on 72 Pyle Street, Newport is hosting two accessible, inclusive events designed to remind island residents that loneliness is not something to face alone. On the Isle of Wight—with its rural pockets, seasonal population shifts, and limited public transport—isolation can be especially acute.

Rosie Price, the Community Engagement Coordinator at The Salvation Army in Isle of Wight who works closely with isolated individuals, said the events are a reminder to everyone that no one should ever be alone. 

Rosie said, "This Loneliness Awareness Week, I want anyone who feels invisible to know: you are not a burden. You are not forgotten. Come as you are—tired, shy, unsure—and let us remind you that connection is still possible, and community is waiting right here."

I have had conversations with individuals who have shared they return to us week in week out because they feel seen, heard and loved in our space, with nothing but kindness and no judgment. I have seen individuals who started as strangers now save each other a seat every week. Loneliness doesn’t wear a sign, but it leaves its mark.

Event Line-up for Loneliness Awareness Week 2026:

- Chatty Café 

 Date: Wednesday, 17 June 

 Time: 10:00 am – 12pm 

 Location:  Isle of Wight Salvation Army Church, Newport 

Tea and coffee available for £1. Homemade cake by suggested donation of £1 per slice. Volunteers will welcome guests and encourage conversation. Rosie will be present to signpost to local support services where needed.

- Social Walk 

  Date: Thursday, 18 June 

  Time: Meet at 10am at the Church 

Dogs welcome. Participants should wear suitable footwear and bring water. A comfort break will be available halfway. In the event of torrential rain, the walk will be replaced with a warm indoor gathering with tea and coffee.

Both events are free to attend, with no booking required. Both venues are wheelchair accessible. The social walk can accommodate mobility aids. For specific access needs, please contact Rosie Price in advance: rosie.price@salvationarmy.org.uk

Meet IOW Salvation Army Friday Cafe team (From left to right): Harry (volunteer), Rosie (Community Engagement co-ordinator), Graham (Volunteer), church leaders: Lt. Luke Furlong and Lt. Rachel Furlong.

Building lasting connections beyond the week

The Salvation Army already runs a low-cost community café on Isle of wight every Tuesday and Friday from 10am to 1pm. Following Loneliness Awareness Week, attendees will be encouraged to continue using the café to maintain and strengthen the friendships and support networks they have begun to build.

The initiative forms part of the world’s largest campaign on the issue, hosted by the Marmalade Trust. Recent research from the Marmalade Trust, which founded Loneliness Awareness Week, suggests that nearly half of UK adults experience loneliness at least some of the time.

In addition to offering pastoral support through church services on Sunday, The Salvation Army on the Isle of Wight provides practical support throughout the week with their community hygiene bank. This is accessible to all that are experiencing hygiene poverty. If you are working with professionals please request a referral through them, alternatively contact the Isle of Wight Salvation Army Church and complete a self-referral; on Fridays at 10am-2pm there is community drop in run by homelessness services and supported by other groups seeking to offer support to anyone in need. 

To learn more about the work of The Salvation Army in Isle of Wight or to support their efforts, visit their website: Isle of Wight | The Salvation Army.