pool together

Week of Action

When?

Saturday, September 27th to Sunday, 5th October 2025

What is it?

The Week of Action is all about coming together across Hartlepool to build friendships, strengthen our community, and spread kindness. From a big community meal to the simple act of making your neighbour a cuppa, a seaside stroll with friends or a school celebration, every action counts. The important thing is that we all promote the power of community and the great things that can we can achieve when we all work together We've seen it before – during the tough times of COVID and when the power went out across Hartlepool recently. Times when we all pulled in the same direction. Let’s make it a “thing” to connect, support, and grow closer as a community. Not everyone knows their neighbours yet, but this is the perfect week to be brave and start that conversation. You’re invited to take part in whatever way works for you!

the week of action

Hartlepool Utd officially kick off the week of action on Saturday 27th September by dedicating their home match v Tamworth at Victoria Park to Pool Together. In addition, we have a whole range of community meals happening across the town including one in Hartlepool Art Gallery – Christchurch, at both Rovers and West Rugby Club, over on the Headland at Changing Futures at Blue Valentine on Church Street, the Salaam Centre on Murray Street and at Community Hub South! Lilyanne’s are dedicating their regular coffee mornings to the Pool Together cause and there will be a special event in the family hub in Middleton Grange for families with children under five We’ll be sharing more information over the coming weeks!! If you want to join in and organise something yourself, get in touch and tell us what you are planning to do, when and where? If you’d like it to be an active part of the Pool Together Week of Action calendar then please could you:

Display the Pool Together posters we have available

Show the Pool Together film at least once during your event or activity

Tell everyone who attends about the Pool Together Website and Facebook Page – encouraging them to get involved in any way they can

Take some pictures to share on the Pool Together website. We are suggesting a. One of all the people attending – it doesn’t matter if its 2, 20 or 200, see if you can get everyone together for a group shot b. One of you doing your activity or being part of the event – it could be eating, playing bingo or painting pictures (whatever you think will help bring people together) c. Some individual photos of anyone willing, could be just a simple picture of someone’s head and shoulders or a couple of people talking or working together d. A selfie of the individual(s) who brought the event together

You might also be able to get some short video clips or audio files on your phone with people talking about what they have enjoyed or if they met anyone new and how they feel at the end of the event

If you are an organisation and you do intend to organise something then please be aware you need to carry out all necessary checks in line with your own procedures and insurances, if you share any photos, video or audio clips please ensure you have permission to share them publicly

Remember this week is about building connections, let’s try and reach the people we know might be especially isolated or lonely and get them involved if we can! Below you’ll find some ideas that you could copy, adapt or just do your own thing!

Neighbourhood Coffee Morning

We know many people want to meet others but feel hesitant to reach out. This is the perfect time to invite a neighbour for a cuppa. Keep it small, keep it casual – just a few people to start, and who knows where it might lead? A simple coffee morning can turn into a regular event, creating a stronger, more connected neighbourhood.

Take it Outside

Fresh air, good company, and a walk are the perfect recipe for building connections. Whether it’s a walk in the park, along the beach, or through the countryside – why not invite a few people you know to join you? Walk side by side, chat about life, and make new connections along the way. And remember, check the tide times before you head to the beach!

Doorstep Coffee & Cake

If you spot a neighbour you don’t know well, why not invite them for a quick cup of tea on the doorstep or over the fence? It’s the little gestures that make a big difference. Take a few minutes to check in with someone, talk about the weather, or even share what you love about Hartlepool. Who knows, you might discover more neighbours who would love to join you next time.

Operation Organisation

If you work with different people, why not use the Week of Action to bring them together for something fun? Organise a community event like an art competition, a quiz night, or a simple meal or social gathering. It’s a great way to grow connections, make memories, and help build a better Hartlepool.

Friends Round Friday

Feeling like you haven't caught up with your friends in a while? Or know someone who’s having a rough time? Invite them over for a meal – breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s a great way to reconnect and strengthen those friendships.

Tea For Two

Use this week to check in on someone – maybe a neighbour or someone you know who's going through a tough time. Invite them in for a cuppa and take a few moments to chat. It’s the simple, small acts of kindness that can make all the difference.

Schools and Colleges – Get Involved!

If you work or study in a school or college, think about what you can do to get everyone involved in spreading kindness and building connections. What could your class or group do to participate in the Week of Action? From small group activities to school-wide events, let’s spread friendship throughout the town!

Join us in spreading the power of connection during the Week of Action. Let’s be the change we want to see in our town, and make sure Hartlepool is a place where kindness and friendship thrive.