Welcome
Alderman Van Koningsveld opened the afternoon with a warm welcome. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the municipality, organizations, and residents in tackling loneliness at the city level. He also expressed his appreciation for the efforts of Amersfoort residents in this project.
From insight to action
Sandra Barth, coordinator on behalf of Impact033, then explained the program and its methodology. This was followed by a more in-depth discussion of the theme. Nadja van Kessel discussed the different forms of loneliness—emotional, social, and existential—and the process of loneliness. She emphasized the importance of listening, taking time, and truly connecting.
Daan Vos, from the Samen Leven department of the Amersfoort municipality, then demonstrated how connecting with others can be the answer to emerging loneliness. He cited inspiring examples and research, emphasizing that while much is already happening in Amersfoort, reaching people who feel less connected remains a challenge.
Brainstorming and theme clusters
The participants then divided into small groups and worked on previously developed loneliness profiles. They brainstormed potential solutions. This generated a wide range of ideas, from neighborhood-focused meetings to creative communication methods.
After clustering all the ideas, four main themes were identified: neighborhoods, information provision, schools, and buddies. A fifth theme—focusing on addiction and incarceration—will be further developed at a later date. A small experiment was designed for each theme: a test campaign.
Brainstorming and theme clusters
The participants then divided into small groups and worked on previously developed loneliness profiles. They brainstormed potential solutions. This generated a wide range of ideas, from neighborhood-focused meetings to creative communication methods.
After clustering all the ideas, four main themes were identified: neighborhoods, information provision, schools, and buddies. A fifth theme—focusing on addiction and incarceration—will be further developed at a later date. A small experiment was designed for each theme: a test campaign.
Design test actions
The participants made concrete agreements regarding implementation, target group, and objectives. The goal is to carry out these test activities during the summer period and present the results at the next ULG meeting on September 17th.
In this way, we are working step by step towards a sustainable and supported approach to loneliness in Amersfoort.
Together against loneliness: in motion
The meeting concluded festively with a group photo, and the energy for change was palpable. It's clear: Amersfoort is moving together against loneliness . The pilot projects now being developed are an important starting point for further experiments and collaboration.
Curious about the results of the test actions?
Register now before September 17th – then we will determine the next steps together with the group of participants.
The original article was written by Sandra Barth form Impact033 and can be read here: https://impact033.nl/2025/06/14/samen-tegen-eenzaamheid/