Social group for young islanders growing 'rapidly'

A social group set up to help young adults make new friends and tackle loneliness has grown to more than 80 members.

Inclusive Islanders was founded in May by university graduate Rosalie Van Zutphen, who wanted to bring some of the social opportunities she experienced in England back to Guernsey.

The group which has members aged 19 to 35 organises activities including sea swims, craft sessions and social events.

Van Zutphen said the amount of interest was "quite surprising" and the number of members was "rapidly increasing" with 88 people in its WhatsApp group chat.

Van Zutphen said the group was created in response to what she saw as a lack of opportunities for young people to meet others outside of work, education or established friendship groups.

"Social media gives the perception that we're all very connected, but in reality I think younger people are struggling a little bit to make those connections in person," she said.

Members include people returning to Guernsey after university, as well as newcomers to the island looking to build a social network.

"It can be quite difficult to find your community here if you're not used to being from a small island," she said.

The group has focused on keeping events affordable and accessible, with many activities either free or low cost.

Its founder said there had been less interest in alcohol-focused events, with members wanting outdoor activities and opportunities to try new hobbies.

"It's really expensive to go out drinking here in Guernsey," Van Zutphen said.

"Anything that's really low cost is what we're trying to do at the moment."

The organisation now has its own committee and plans for further events, with organisers expecting membership to continue to grow.

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