Relationships shape our lives. Whether it is friendships, family ties or the teams we work with, strong connections can help us feel supported, confident and balanced.
Relationships Matter Week is a chance to explore what makes relationships work. The council began the initiative three years ago and for the first time, it’s now open to the public. From Monday 10 to Friday 14 November, you can join a series of free events across the borough.
There are sessions for children and young people, parents and carers, and anyone interested in building better connections.
What’s on?
- The psychology of friendships
Monday 10 November. From 11:00am to 12:30pm. This is an online event.
Learn why friendships matter and how they affect your wellbeing. Led by clinical psychologist Dr Alicia Fairhurst.
- Ealing Woodcraft Folk open session
Monday 10 November. From 6pm to 7:15pm, at Drayton Manor High School, Hanwell
Children aged 6 to 12 years old can play games, take part in crafts activities, and make friendship bracelets with this long-running youth group.
- The changing landscape of friendship
Tuesday 11 November. From 11am to 12:30pm. This is an online event.
Explore how friendships change over time, and how parents can support children through friendship challenges.
- Building connection: What makes teams work
Tuesday 11 November. From 2pm to 3:30pm, at Young Ealing Foundation, Culmington Road, West Ealing
Take part in a hands-on workshop about trust, collaboration and what helps teams thrive.
- Neurodiversity and friendships
Wednesday 12 November. From 10am to midday. This is an online event.
Join a discussion about how neurodiverse people experience friendships at different ages.
- Chatty Café at Mahaba
Wednesday 12 November. From 1pm to 3pm, at Mahaba Café, Singapore Road, West Ealing.
Drop in for a friendly chat and meet new people in a relaxed setting.
- Toxic: Friendship red and green flags
Wednesday 12 November. From 6pm to 7pm. This is an online event for young people aged 12-16.
Writer Natasha Devon will talk about healthy and unhealthy friendships, based on her novel Toxic.
- The Parent’s Circle
Thursday 13 November. From 10am to midday, at HFEH Mind Youth Hub, 46 South Ealing Road
This is a peer support group for parents and carers. Share experiences and learn how to support children’s friendships.
- Friendships, compliments and self-esteem workshops
Thursday 13 November. From 5:30pm to 6:30pm and 6pm to 7pm, at Mahaba Café, Singapore Road, West Ealing.
Children aged 7 to 11 years old can explore what makes a good friend, how to give compliments and build confidence. Includes a light buffet.
Councillor Josh Blacker, the council’s cabinet member for a fairer start, said: “Relationships Matter Week is a great opportunity for families in the borough to take part in free sessions that support emotional wellbeing. I encourage everyone to get involved.”
Book your place
All events are free, but you might need to register. You can find out more and sign up online. Go to the Eventbrite website.
