Community and identity all speak to that feeling that we all long to feel that we belong. To be seen. To be valued. To be part of something larger than ourselves.
At Forelight, we believe that wellbeing is not only a matter of personal resilience or individual health – it is deeply connected to how we relate to others, how we see ourselves, and how we find our place in the world. This section of our resources library is dedicated to understanding, exploring and supporting the ties between community, identity, and belonging – the social and cultural roots of wellbeing.
Why This Matters
When people feel disconnected from their neighbours, their heritage, or their sense of self – it can have a profound effect on our mental and physical health. Loneliness, discrimination, trauma and exclusion are all linked with higher risks of anxiety, depression and poorer health outcomes.
Conversely, a strong sense of community, shared identity, and belonging has been shown to protect against distress and improve wellbeing. This might mean being part of a cultural or faith community, an LGBTQ+ support group, a peer-led mental health circle, or simply having good neighbours and someone to talk to.
Feeling at sense of belonging should not be a luxury. It is a foundation of our health.
What You’ll Find Here
This theme brings together guidance, insights, and signposting to help individuals reconnect with themselves and others. Topics include:
- Loneliness & social isolation – What it means to feel alone, and where to turn for help or companionship.
- LGBTQ+ identity and support – Affirming resources and inclusive organisations offering specialist support.
- Faith, spirituality and cultural identity – The role of belief and tradition in creating meaning and resilience.
- Community-led initiatives – How local groups and grassroots movements are fostering connection and care.
- Belonging after trauma or displacement – Support for migrants, refugees, and others rebuilding a sense of home.
- Intersectionality and inclusion – Understanding how different aspects of identity (e.g. race, gender, disability, class) combine to shape lived experience.
Explore our articles and insights in our blog and our library of resources and guides to learn more, and visit our Get Help page to find local and national organisations that can support you.
Need Support?
We know that community and identity can also be sources of challenge. If you’re feeling isolated, experiencing discrimination, or struggling to find your place, help is available.
Visit our directory to find support related to:
- Loneliness and isolation
- LGBTQ+ mental health
- Faith and cultural organisations
- Migrant and refugee support
These services include helplines, peer support, community centres, and digital groups – many of them free and accessible without a referral.
A Guided Pathway Toward Belonging
Forelight is here to help illuminate your path, whatever your background or beliefs. We believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, included, and connected – not just in their homes or families, but in their communities, workplaces and public life. Our directory of local support services are an invitation: to reach out, to reconnect, and to rediscover a sense of belonging in the world around you.
If you are looking for a place to start, to help understand what your core values are and how your personal values can shape your sense of self and wellbeing – take the personal values assessment quiz.