Cheshire East Council to launch new Befriending Network to celebrate national Befriending Week

30 October 2025

To mark Befriending Week 2025 (1–7 November), Cheshire East Council is proud to announce the launch of a new Befriending Network across the borough, aimed at tackling social isolation and loneliness through innovation, collaboration and community spirit. 

Befriending Week is the national campaign celebrating and raising awareness of befriending and the positive impact it has on individuals and communities.

The network is part of the Cheshire East Plan 2025-29 to improve the health and wellbeing of our residents, by enabling communities through strong and committed partnerships. This network will bring together partners from across all sectors to create a vibrant, dynamic forum for befriending services. The network will champion shared learning, coordinated support, and collaboration, whilst developing opportunities for residents to connect and thrive.

The virtual launch event will take place on Tuesday 25 November from 2pm to 3pm, and will showcase the network’s vision, introduce key partners, and invite organisations and individuals to get involved.

Councillor Jill Rhodes, chair of Cheshire East Council’s Adults and Health Committee, said: “Loneliness and isolation can have a profound impact on people’s health and wellbeing. This new befriending network is a big step forward in how we support our communities – bringing together the passion and expertise of all partners to create meaningful connections and lasting change. 

“I encourage everyone to join us for the launch and be part of this exciting movement.”

The network will build on existing services and community groups, offering a coordinated platform for befriending services to collaborate and bring opportunities to strengthen and grow befriending in Cheshire East. 

To get involved and register for the virtual launch or to find out more please contact the Connected Communities team via email at: communities@cheshireeast.gov.uk.