New Local Support Groups Help Tackle Loneliness and Bereavement in Redbridge and Barking & Dagenham
OrangeLine, the confidential telephone service at Saint Francis Hospice, has set up two more of their Friendly Faces groups for bereaved people so they can reach out to more people in Barking and Dagenham who have lost a loved one and would like to connect with other people in a similar position.
The Friendly Faces groups are designed for people who have been bereaved and want to meet others who understand what they’re going through. Both groups offer a warm, welcoming space to talk, share experiences and build new friendships.
Friendly Faces in Dagenham
Where? The Pipe Major, 1 Yew Tree Avenue, Dagenham
When? Every other Friday, 10am–12 noon
Next meeting: Friday 14 November
Friendly Faces in Chadwell Heath
Where? Chadwell Heath and Whalebone Hub, London Road, RM6 6AS
When? Third Monday of every month, 2pm–4pm
Starts: Monday 17 November
OrangeLine has also launched a new group to support unpaid carers in Redbridge, recognising the importance of giving carers time for themselves to connect and recharge.
Carers Corner Support Group in Redbridge
Where? 1856 Café, Hainault Forest, 3 Fox Burrow Road, Ilford IG7 4QN
When? Monthly on Thursdays, 10am–11.30am
First meeting: Thursday 6 November
Parking: Blue Badge free; Redbridge hourly charges apply
“We find it’s the connections with others that our clients yearn for and thrive on,” Karen Freeman, OrangeLine Project Manager.
OrangeLine already runs six established groups across Havering and Brentwood, with more planned in Barking and Dagenham in the coming months. Many participants have gone on to form lasting friendships and self-supporting networks.
To find out more, visit sfh.org.uk/orangeline-helpline or call 01708 758 649.
