Winter Connections Challenge
Winter Connections Challenge
We are encouraging the people of Norfolk and Suffolk to get involved in a project to combat loneliness and help stay connected with others this winter.
The Winter Connections Challenge was officially launched at Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust's (NSFT) Annual General Meeting, Thursday 9 October 2025. The challenge invites members of the public to place a design on a postcard. The postcard can then be sent to someone they know who may feel isolated or lonely at this time of year - or someone they may want to connect with.
We know in Norfolk alone over 20 per cent of adults experience loneliness, and the research tells us this number might increase. Loneliness is a key factor in physical and emotional health and we want to play our part in tackling it.
Connection is right at the heart of what makes us feel good about ourselves and our lives. When we have strong connections, we feel we belong, we feel supported, and we can celebrate the good times and look after one another in the tough times. When we don't have it, we struggle to thrive. The Recovery College is rooted in connection.
By sending a postcard, not only will we brighten someone's day when it lands on their doormat, but it lets them know we are thinking of them. A postcard feels different to a text message, it doesn't demand an answer, but it might be enough to spark a connection and give someone the opportunity to reach out if they need support. If we make time to nourish our connections, we build a strong foundation to support ourselves and others, through even the most difficult moments we face.
The Recovery College is giving out postcard templates to members of the public at events and they can also be picked up from Recovery College courses or by emailing the team at RecoveryOnline@nsft.nhs.uk
A £50 One4all gift card is being offered for the most inspirational design. Those who wish to enter the competition should email a photo of their design to RecoveryOnline@nsft.nhs.uk by 31st December 2025, please be sure to include your contact details, so we can contact you if you win. The winner will be announced on the Recovery College's Facebook page and on their webpage: www.nsft.nhs.uk/recoverycollege.