Autumn feels full of potential, nature is busy, we’re settling into new routines and the clocks go back at the end of October, giving us an extra hour to play with. How might you use that hour?

We asked this question in our team meeting and answers included taking an autumnal walk, picking up a craft project, catching up on life admin and connecting with friends and neighbours.

If cooking or crafting are your thing, see below for inspiration. After some connection? Join us at an event near you and keep an eye out for our Winter Warmer ideas, including The Big Lunch at Christmas coming soon!

We’ve also got lots of online events to enjoy from home coming up, including our Introduction to Community Action course. Starting on 6 November and split over five evening online sessions, it’s THE course for anyone wanting to make positive changes in their community. Apply by 27 October.

As always, we’re supporting Food for Life’s Cook and Share month, which this year has four themed weeks to help you cook for people, pleasure, the planet and the pocket. Use our Autumn cookbook to join in.

Half term is nearly here so we’ve got some fun ideas for the kids to get crafty with paper, but they’re just as fun for adults! Make homemade decorations, flags and lanterns for any Autumn and Winter events you have coming up.

If you love Halloween, but hate the associated waste, use our tips to avoid the cheap throwaway outfits and disposable decorations, not to mention all that pumpkin that ends up in the bin. Pumpkin ice cream, anyone?

Action for Happiness create an annual calendar with simple daily actions to help us focus on what matters. This month is Optimistic October and New Ways November is coming up. Start enjoying a daily moment of mindfulness, by adding the ideas to your calendar with one simple click.