WHETHER you’re a newcomer to the Bicester area or your family put down roots here generations ago, it can sometimes be hard to find ways to meet likeminded people.

But January is the ideal time to break out of old routines and establish healthy new habits to kick start your year.

Cherwell District Council’s new online Wellbeing Map is an invaluable new tool to help people all over our district bond over shared interests and take up new activities.

Covering everything from running to gardening, the historical society and mother-and-toddler groups, the map is a one-stop guide to the free and affordable activities.

There’s lots of fun to be had at sessions such as Coles Books’ storytime sessions for the under-fives. But having fun with your neighbours and enjoying shared interests is far from trivial.

Campaign to End Loneliness recently found that nine million people in the UK say they are lonely, and that’s backed up by research we carried out with the University of Oxford, showing that one in six Bicester residents feel socially isolated. This can have a major impact on our mental health.

This is not acceptable, and especially disappointing when we consider that many of these people could be missing out on activities that are taking place on their doorsteps.

As a council we have a commitment to help communities thrive, so I think the work that’s been done to bring information about local groups together and put them into a single map, searchable by postcode, is laudable.

You might already be enjoying some of the activities we are promoting, for instance gardening, walking or cycling, but joining a group could be an excellent way to meet new people or pick up fresh tips.

It’s estimated that you can burn around 500 calories per hour gardening or doing outdoors conservation work, so why not consider linking up with Langford Community Orchard or Bicester Green Gym this year?

Or for something to increase your strength and flexibility you could try Dru Yoga. It is suitable for all abilities and focusses on soft, flowing movements which help to increase your energy levels, ease back pain and gives you a great boost both to your physical and mental wellbeing.

The Bicester Social Cycle Group and Health Walks are not only companionable but friendly to your wallet too and offer fantastic ways to get out and discover more about your town.

If it is your mind you are looking to keep active you could join the Bicester Local History Society, and Launton Village Rock Chorus is also featured on the map as singing is great for your wellbeing.

The map is a testament to the hard work of local community groups, volunteers and small businesses and looking through it fills me with hope for 2019.

It’s not set in stone either; we are constantly updating it with the latest information.

Details bit.ly/CDCWellbeingMap