South Tyneside is continuing its commitment to tackling loneliness and strengthening community connections with the return of ConnectFest 2026, a welcoming event designed to bring residents, local groups, and support services together.
Held as part of efforts to reduce social isolation across the borough, ConnectFest provides an opportunity for people of all ages to discover the wide range of activities, organisations, and community services available in South Tyneside.
Whether you’re looking to make new friends, explore local hobbies, access support services, or simply find out what’s happening in your area, the event offers something for everyone.
You’ll have the chance to speak directly with a wide range of local organisations and services, including:
- Community groups and social activities
- Health and wellbeing organisations
- Employment and support services
- Advice and recovery services
- Arts, culture and creative groups
Organisations attending include:
- Northern Rights
- Family Fitness and Food CIC
- One4All Drop In
- Sense Ability Matters
- Red Bench
- Out and About CIC
- DWP
- Emmaus North East
- Hydro 4U CIC
- Churches Together in South Tyneside
- South Tyneside Council teams
- Restart
- Happy at Home
- Hospitality and Hope
- South Tyneside Adult Recovery Service
- Groundwork South and North Tyneside
- Key Community
- Everyturn Mental Health
- Age Concern Tyneside South
- NECA Gambling Support
- Inspire/Plinth
- RISE South Tyneside Place Partnership
- Cultural Spring
- Equal Arts
- Local Area Coordination
- Connected Carers
- South Tyneside Libraries
- Kalma Life
- and more.
ConnectFest also highlights the strength of South Tyneside’s community sector, showcasing the organisations and volunteers who work year-round to support residents’ wellbeing. From social clubs and fitness groups to wellbeing services and volunteering opportunities, visitors can learn about the many ways they can stay active, connected, and supported.
The free event will be held at Temple Park Centre, South Shields on Tuesday, 16 June, 10am – 1pm. No booking is required.
If you’d like to find out more before attending, please contact Christina Hardy via christina.hardy@southtyneside.gov.uk.
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