Who We Are
About Connect NE CIC
Who We Are
Connect NE CIC is a community-focused organisation dedicated to reducing loneliness and improving wellbeing across the North East. We provide welcoming, safe spaces—both online and in person—where people can make friends, support one another, and grow together.
With over 2,000 members and growing every day, our community spans Tyne & Wear, Durham, Teesside, and Northumberland, connecting people from all walks of life.
Our Mission
Connect NE CIC exists to reduce loneliness and improve wellbeing across our region. Through social meet-ups, walk-and-talk groups, book clubs, skills sharing, and welfare support, we help members build confidence, improve mental and physical health, and strengthen community connections. Our mission is simple: to make sure no one in the North East ever feels alone.
Our Vision
A North East where everyone feels connected, supported, and valued; where community, friendship, and wellbeing are at the heart of everyday life.
Our Values
- Friendship first – everyone deserves to belong.
- Community over competition – we champion local people and independent businesses.
- Support without judgement – safe spaces where it’s okay not to be okay.
- Wellbeing for all – mental, physical, and social health go hand in hand.
- Growth through sharing – whether it’s skills, stories, or time, we lift each other up.
What We Do
- Social Meet-Ups & Nights Out – Regular events and nights out in local areas to bring people together.
- Book Club (eBook Group) – Fortnightly online discussions where members share ideas and enjoy reading together.
- Walk & Talk Groups – Monthly walks across the region combining fitness and conversation.
- Welfare & Support Team – Confidential help for members dealing with mental health or personal issues.
- Safe Online Spaces – Secure communities on Messenger, Discord, WhatsApp, and soon our own website, keeping members connected no matter where they are.
- Skill Swap Sessions – Members exchange knowledge—from cooking and tech to DIY and CV support—to learn, save money, and grow together.
- Gaming Group (Coming Soon) – An online space to connect through shared gaming experiences.
- Supporting Local Businesses – Coffee meet-ups and events hosted only at independent, locally owned cafés and venues.
- Sub-Groups by Area – Smaller Facebook communities for Tyne & Wear, Durham, Teesside, and Northumberland, keeping engagement personal and local.
Our Future Goals
- Single Parent Support Groups – creating spaces for shared experiences and connection.
- Neurodivergent Meet-Ups – tailored gatherings for smaller groups to feel comfortable and included.
- Live Music & Cultural Events – tapping into the vibrant North East music scene.
- Connect NE Hub – a permanent community space with a café, meeting rooms, and counselling services.
- Creative & Hobby Clubs – opportunities for members to explore art, writing, photography, and crafts together.
- Volunteering & Community Projects – helping members give back while building connections.