Meeting new people in the UK as a newly arrived expat is easy. However, if this is your first experience living abroad, you may have concerns such as, "How will I manage on my own in the UK?", "Will I find like-minded individuals to connect with?", "Will they understand my spoken English and accent?". These worries, although understandable, tend to dissipate when you begin meeting people who share common interests, whether in parenting styles, hobbies, professional pursuits, and more. Numerous year-round events and activities provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals.
Tips for growing your social circle in the UK
There are endless opportunities to expand your social circle in the UK, especially in big cities such as London. Since COVID-19 restrictions are a thing of the past, organizations and businesses have resumed their social activities. Professional networking events in your field to connect with others in your industry or career are a great way to meet people.
Language exchange groups
International language exchange groups are one of the best and easiest ways of meeting new people worldwide. In general, you will feel less awkward if you are in such a group as you will be meeting people looking to expand their social network, too, which will make communication easier. International exchange groups are intended for those who want to meet new people and practice a new language. You can find many of these groups in most cities. Have a look at social media to find one around you. You can also explore language exchange websites for online language exchange partners.
Popular languages such as French, Spanish, German, Italian, Arabic, and Chinese have their official organizations in large cities in the UK. These include the British Chinese Society, Alliance Française, Goethe Institute, il Circolo, and the Arab British Centre. These organizations regularly run programs and events in popular places where you can meet new people who speak your language. It can be an excellent option if you are looking for new friends who understand or are interested in your culture.
Important:
Avoid restricting your group of friends to people who speak your language only; this may limit practicing your English language skills.
Join a group or a society
Another viable option is to join a group or society that interests you. Whether you like sports, chess, debates, arts, or reading and discussing books, you will find something that binds you to people in the long run. Joining and participating in a group will help you grow and improve your skills. University or college students can choose from a range of groups and societies. You can seek more information from the university's administrative office. If you recently joined a large organization in the UK, the HR department can provide you with information on their social activities. Besides, bonding with your coworkers can make your expat life in the country even more interesting, as you can plan outings together or have a drink after work, for example.
Tip:
If you are a freelancer, networking events make it easier to boost your service and meet new people, including clients.
Volunteering
If you have free time, you may consider volunteering. This might help you meet like-minded people and connect better with your community. Volunteering has many benefits, including helping people and improving your new environment, meeting new people, building up experience for your CV, improving your English, etc. To volunteer, try contacting local volunteer centres, or charities or applying via volunteering websites. Below are some examples.
Useful links:
Be open to invitations
To meet new people and make new friends, you should leave your comfort zone and stay open to new adventures, such as touring the city or planning a weekend getaway. With a single person, many may eventually join in. Even if you have not met your type of people, accept the invitations to gatherings to improve your chances of meeting the right people. Whatever keeps you active and entertained will help you adjust to your new environment and minimize the likelihood of homesickness.
Useful links:
National Council for Voluntary Organisations
Mobile apps
Online apps are not only for dating but also a great way to meet new people and make new friends. However, be aware that you might have to try a few before deciding what works best for you.
Useful links:
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
