Tackling Loneliness at Work: 5 Event Strategies You Need to Know

Loneliness. It’s one of those words we don’t like to say out loud at work, but it’s closer to the surface than we might think. Roughly 3.1 million people in the UK say they often or always feel lonely. And, while we’re reshaping work for the future, making it more flexible, more productive, more digital, we’ve overlooked one critical area: belonging.

Here’s the thing: belonging doesn’t just happen by accident. It takes intention, design, and a good dose of in-person events.

So, how can organisations create spaces where belonging can flourish? Here are five actionable strategies you can adopt to tackle loneliness at work:

Build Belonging at a Distance

With hybrid working here to stay, belonging can slip through the cracks. The data shows that remote workers are more likely to feel disconnected (25%) compared with those in an office setting (16%). Events can bridge that gap by creating shared moments, online or in person, that foster connections beyond a Slack channel. From virtual brainstorms to digital ‘offsites’, these moments matter.

Nurture a New Sense of Purpose

People aren’t just looking for a paycheck anymore. 72% of global workers value training and development, and nearly half would accept lower pay if their work felt more meaningful. Events can help people find purpose by aligning personal growth with company culture, offering spaces for learning, upskilling, and recognition. It’s about making work feel worth it.

Support a Solution for Work–Life Tension

Today’s workforce is grappling with the tension between boundaries and belonging. 62% of UK workers hide aspects of themselves at work, making it harder to form authentic connections. Events can help break down those walls. From after-work socials to interactive workshops, events create spaces where people can open up, relax, and connect as whole people.

Build Hierarchy–Free Harmony

Trust between staff and senior leaders is vital, yet only 35% trust CEOs. But when events break down hierarchical barriers, trust can flourish. Think interactive Q&As, open discussions, and spaces where leaders don’t just present, but participate. Helping staff and leaders connect as humans can foster belonging across an organisation.

Create Space for Community to Flourish

It’s hard to feel connected when every working moment is accounted for. 28% of younger workers say tight schedules prevent socialising. Creating spaces that prioritise connections, like internal festivals, themed days, or collaborative projects, gives people the room to connect naturally, making belonging part of the daily work experience.

The Bigger Picture

Belonging is more than a nice-to-have. It’s a must-have. 85% believe a sense of belonging improves their performance, making it a critical part of any successful company.

Through events, both big and small, you can foster connections, deepen trust, and build a culture that people want to stay a part of.

If you’re ready to transform belonging from a buzzword into a reality for your team, this is just the starting point. Discover actionable ideas, inspiring case studies, and deep-dive insights in our upcoming webinar on 23rd July, Tackling Loneliness: Re-establishing a sense of belonging through events. Sign up now.