Learning something new is good for our mental health, but can also help us to connect with other people. 

A local college or community education course puts you in contact with others who share similar hobbies or pursuits.

Check out your local community hall for social groups such as the Women's Institute, Bridge groups, Amateur Dramatics and more.

Join online social groups to learn something new.

• Somerset Skills and Learning can help you progress your career, get qualified or learn for fun
• Bridgwater and Taunton College have courses for school leavers, adults and businesses
• Learn or improve your basic computer skills with BT homelife courses

Organised groups are an ideal place to make new connections. Ideas for children and young people:

• Mother and baby groups
• Mother and toddler groups
• Rainbows for all girls aged 5 to 7 years
• Brownies for all girls aged 7 to 10 years
• Girl Guiding for all girls aged 10 to 14 years
• Rangers for all girls aged 14 to 18 years
• Squirrels for all children aged 4 to 5 years
• Beavers for all children aged 6 to 8 years
• Cubs for all children aged 8 to 10.5 years
• Scouts for all children aged 10.5 to 14 years
• Explorers for young people aged 14 to 18 years
• Scout Network for young people aged 18 to 25 years
• Sea Cadets for young people aged 10 to 18 years
• Army Cadets for young people aged 12 to 18 years
• RAF Air Cadets for young people aged 13 to 17 years
• Duke of Edinburgh for young people aged 14 to 24 years 
• Outward Bound Trust for primary aged children and young people