Social activities

Older woman takes part in a treetops adventure course

Staying social

Staying socially connected and maintaining an active lifestyle are key elements of staying healthy. But not everyone finds it so easy to get out and about and stay social, especially those who live alone or are less mobile. That’s where our social activities services come in.

We run a wide range of clubs, groups and events in local communities, many of them staffed by our volunteers. They’re great places to meet old friends, make new ones, refresh existing skills or try something new.

Our social activities are available online and in person depending on where you live.

Festive Spread events

Christmas is a time of year to come together and shouldn’t be something you have to celebrate on your own. Thanks to the many people who have supported our Festive Spread Christmas appeal we are hosting more celebrations than ever to bring people together to celebrate together with a nutritious meal in the company of others.

Our Festive Spreads take part throughout England, Scotland & Wales during December and everyone is welcome. Find an event near you and book your place.

Find a local Festive Spread event

Celebrating a Christmas meal with friends

What’s available near me?

Want to find social activities to take part in near you? Enter your postcode to find out.

Lunch clubs

Royal Voluntary Service lunch clubs are a real lifeline for people across the country, offering a warm, social space where they can enjoy a good home cooked meal and some company.

There’s usually also a range of activities to join in or try, including one-pot cooking classes that help even the most inexperienced chef to create a tasty, healthy meal!

Depending on where you live we can also help out with transport to make sure that you never miss a meal.

Royal Voluntary Service lunch club volunteer

Social clubs & events

There’s no simple way to list all the social clubs and events we’re able to offer. They cover a huge variety of hobbies, interests and pastimes, as well as visits to specialist venues like indoor bowling greens or aquafit classes at the local pool.

Our clubs and events help you to keep doing the things you enjoy in a social setting where you can keep up with friends or make new ones.

We also run a number of event programes including First Time for Everything which gives you the chance to try out something new, explore different hobbies and of course make new friends.

Find out more about First Time for Everything events

Man takes part in an indoor archery class

Healthy, Happy Lives

Everyone ages differently. For some, staying healthy, active and social as you grow older will be relatively simple. Others, particularly those with complex mental or physical health issues, will need more support.

Our Health, Happy Lives programme offers something for everyone, whether that’s simply a social setting for lunch, or specialist therapy and exercise if you have cognitive or physical challenges.

It creates safe, supportive spaces where you and your carers can join in a variety of activities in your local community and at your own level.

Community cafés

There’s nothing like a coffee, a chat and a bite to eat to keep friends and neighbours connected. That’s just what our community cafés provide.

Usually held in a local community centre or hall, they offer good, healthy food at affordable prices, along with weekly activity programmes that cover everything from arts and heritage to healthy living and hobby clubs.

They also host social clubs and events, with activities whether you like to take it easy as well as if you who feel more energetic.

Royal Voluntary Service volunteer smiling at a Community Café

Virtual Village Hall

Art, baking, exercise classes, crafts and cocktail making — there’s all sorts of fun to be had in our Virtual Village Hall! With sessions presented by expert tutors, volunteers, celebrity guests and more, there’s something to suit everyone.

No need for a lot of space or any specialist equipment, most of the activities are easy to join with tools and materials most people have at home. Some don’t need any equipment at all, just a desire to join in!

Virtual visitors can take part in live sessions, or access them on demand at a time that works for them. All they need is an internet connection and they’re ready for an online world of activity.

Visit the Virtual Village Hall

Other ways we can help

We're here to support with a range of services to make things easier.

We support NHS Trusts and the wider integrated care system

Royal Voluntary Service works with local and national partners to provide flexible tailor-made service solutions in people's homes and in healthcare settings.

See how we can work together