Carlisle and Cumbria face significant challenges around loneliness, poor wellbeing and isolation. Carlisle is Cumbria’s only city, serving a large rural county where accessible cultural and community spaces can be harder to find. For older adults, people living with dementia, caring responsibilities or reduced mobility, opportunities to socialise and take part in community life can become limited. People need safe, welcoming spaces where they can connect, feel valued and belong.

A Place to Belong will expand and develop Tullie’s creative wellbeing programme, including Tullie Art Group, Meet Me at the Museum, and Social History Group. Through object handling, art-making, conversation, reminiscence and shared creative experience, people will build friendships, improve their own confidence and enjoy meaningful social connections in a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment.