Healthy Wexford proposes a weekly #OpenLunch
To make and maintain social connections, Healthy Wexford are encouraging all to develop their outdoor lunchtime social engagement with a new initiative called #OpenLunch. An #OpenLunch is where you use your lunchtime, and the open spaces we have – parks, green areas, beaches etc to meet and connect with others in your area.
Whether it’s a meet up with friends, remote workers connecting, or residents making new connections locally this is an opportunity to use your lunchtime and the wonderful open spaces we have across the county. You could incorporate a ‘walk & talk’ or simply ‘meet to eat’; whatever you do it’s an opportunity to get out and connect with those in your area.
Developed in response to reduced social connection over the recent past, this initiative is about making the conscious effort to keep and build our social connections, while enjoying the great outdoor resources we have in the county.
Some tips for organising an #OpenLunch
• If organising a community ‘walk and talk’ check out the Community Walking Resources from Get Ireland Walking. This resource offers hints, tips, and resources for organising a community walking group . Let others know it’s happening via social media, local newsletters, or community connections. If you prefer to keep it just to friends that’s OK too.
• When sharing on social media use the #OpenLunch hashtag with your location so others in your area can find out what’s happening locally e.g. #OpenLunch Kilmore. Tag @HealthyWexford too.
• Workers may need to keep it within the hour so make sure you leave time to arrive and return. Perhaps initially meet from 1.15 to 1.45, then see how it goes for your group. However, those who are retired, or are stay at home parents may have different schedules so see what works for your group.
• If it’s a ‘meet to eat’ perhaps you could link in with your local community café, if you have one, to offer takeaway lunch or simply bring your own from home. To check out healthy lunch ideas see the Safefood website