Life can feel overwhelming sometimes, and it's easy to feel like you're dealing with things on your own. Connecting with other people can help boost your confidence, improve your wellbeing, and remind you that you're not alone. Connection could be joining a group, volunteering, trying a new activity, or simply talking to people who understand what you're going through. You don't need to be the most confident person in the room. Start small and take things at your own pace. Even one conversation or new connection can make a real difference. There are people, groups and opportunities across Plymouth ready to welcome and support you.

Head Space offers a welcoming, non-clinical space for people who feel they may be approaching a mental health crisis and would benefit from support outside of traditional services. The service provides a safe, calm environment where individuals can access compassionate peer support, either in a one-to-one setting or alongside others who understand what they're going through. The team of staff and volunteers are there to listen without judgement, offer support and help connect you with additional services when needed. Self-referrals are welcome, and no formal diagnosis or appointment is required to access support. What you can expect from Head Space:a safe and supportive space to talkpeer support from people who understandone-to-one and group support optionspractical help to manage difficult feelings and challengessignposting and referrals to other services where appropriatea non-judgemental environment where you'll be listened to, respected and accepted for who you are Opening times:Tuesday & Wednesday, 6pm to midnight - Pre-booked appointments and phone supportSaturday & Sunday, 6pm to midnight - Drop-in café space, appointments and phone support Contact: headspace@colebrooksw.orgCall 07890 257614 For appointment bookings: Headspaceappointment@colebrooksw.orgCall or text 07546 527380 If you're struggling with your mental health, feeling overwhelmed, or simply need someone to talk to, Head Space offers a welcoming place to find support before reaching crisis point.

Routes to Grow is a welcoming community project from Routeways that provides a safe, supportive space for people aged 18+ who may be experiencing social isolation or loneliness. Based at the Devonport Park Activity Centre, the project brings people together through hands-on gardening and outdoor activities. Participants can get involved in growing fruit, vegetables and plants using the site's greenhouse, polytunnels and raised beds, while helping to develop and care for the space. Sessions are guided by an experienced gardener, creating opportunities to learn new skills, spend time outdoors and connect with others in a relaxed and friendly environment. Staff are also available to provide informal mental health support, a listening ear, and signposting to additional services where needed. Routes to Grow offers:a friendly and inclusive space to meet othersgardening and growing activities for all abilitiesaccess to green space and the benefits of being outdoorsopportunities to learn practical skills and build confidenceinformal wellbeing and mental health supportsignposting to further help and services. When: Tuesday and Thursday, 10am to 3pm Where: Devonport Park Activity Centre Cost: Free to attend Whether you're looking to make new connections, improve your wellbeing, spend time in nature or simply try something new, Routes to Grow offers a supportive environment where you can take things at your own pace. Find out more: https://www.routeways.org.uk/over18s

ANDYSMANCLUB is a men's suicide prevention charity that provides free, peer-to-peer support groups across the UK and online. The charity aims to break down the stigma surrounding men's mental health and encourages men to talk openly through the power of conversation. The group meets every Monday at 7pm (excluding bank holidays) and is open to any man aged 18 and over. There are more than 320 groups nationwide, as well as an online option for those who would prefer to join remotely.Online meetings are held via Google Meet. To request an access link, email info@andysmanclub.co.uk. Plymouth face-to-face meetings take place every Monday at 7pm:The HQ Building, 237 Union StreetFour Greens Community Trust, 15 Whitleigh Green Whether you're struggling, feeling isolated, or simply looking for a space to talk, ANDYSMANCLUB offers a confidential, judgement-free environment where men can support one another through conversation. FAQ – ANDYSMANCLUBBrew and chat podcast - Brew & Chat - A Podcast by ANDYSMANCLUB

Plymouth’s Wellbeing Hubs provide welcoming community spaces where people of all ages can access support, improve their wellbeing, develop new skills and connect with activities in their local area. Run by the voluntary sector, the hubs are welcoming, safe and secure spaces in local neighbourhoods, to meet people from the local community, volunteers and practitioners.  Anyone can drop-in to these buildings and be welcomed by our friendly teams, who are there to provide support and advice to meet your needs and interests.For locations, services and activities visit the Plymouth Wellbeing Hub Network website.

Volunteering can be a great way to improve your wellbeing, meet new people, build confidence and develop a sense of purpose. It's an opportunity to be part of your community while making a positive difference to the lives of others. Many organisations and community groups welcome people from all backgrounds who have skills, interests or experiences they would like to share. Whether your passion is outdoor activities, gardening, music, art, drama, cooking, wellbeing, or something completely different, there may be an opportunity to get involved. Your lived experience can be just as valuable as your skills. By sharing your journey, offering encouragement, or supporting others who may be facing similar challenges, you can help people feel understood, connected and hopeful. If you'd like to give back, learn new skills, build your experience or simply meet like-minded people, get started by visiting our Volunteering and Work Experience page here.

Looking for something new to try? Getting involved in your community can be a great way to boost your wellbeing, build confidence, meet new people and discover new interests. Whether you're looking for something active, creative, social or simply a reason to get out and about, there are lots of opportunities across Plymouth to help you feel more connected. You could try:joining a local fitness class or sports grouptaking part in a Couch to 5K programmecold water swimmingbouldering or climbing sessionsyoga and mindfulness activitiescreative and mindful art groupsa book club or games cluba cooking classjoining a choir or music grouplitter-picking and environmental volunteeringlocal societies, hobby groups and community support groups. These activities can help improve wellbeing, reduce feelings of isolation, create routine and provide opportunities to meet people who share similar interests. Find local opportunities:Devon Mind courses and wellbeing workshopsPlymouth Online Directory community groupsVisit Plymouth events and activitiesPlymouth City Council's free and low-cost activitiesImproving Lives Plymouth activities and eventsCommunity and Social CICs across Plymouth and West Devon Whether you're looking to make new friends, learn a skill, improve your physical health or simply try something different, getting involved in community activities can be a positive step towards feeling more connected and supported.

Building connections, improving your wellbeing and trying new experiences can all help you feel more confident about your future. Many of the skills that employers value are closely linked to wellbeing, including:communication and relationship buildingconfidence and self-beliefmanaging pressure and setbacksproblem-solving and decision-makingmotivation and personal responsibility. When you feel ready, explore our Resource Bank for support with:careers and career ideasfinding a jobtraining and qualificationsapprenticeshipsvolunteering opportunitiesbuilding confidence and employability skills.