The Big Lunch
Supporting communities to bring people together and reduce loneliness and isolation.
Making time for togetherness is vital in the face of rises in poor mental health, loneliness, division and increasing polarisation. With Pears Foundation funding, through The Big Lunch, we know we can continue to build social capital and encourage new community connections by bringing millions of people together across the UK every June. We are immensely proud of what we have already achieved and through our partnership on Nature Connections with the Pears Foundation and are excited to continue to explore the power of community to shape a positive future for both people and planet through active citizenship, our connection with nature and our connection with one another.Lindsey Brummitt,
Eden Project Programme Director
The Big Lunch has been bringing millions of people together across UK communities since 2009, helping to reduce loneliness and isolation, and increase feelings of safety, belonging, friendship and trust. We are delighted to deepen our partnership with Eden Project and hope our support enables them to continue to develop this brilliant initiative.Sir Trevor Pears CMG,
Executive Chair
Partner since: 2024
Funding awarded: £3 million
Pears Foundation began its partnership with The Eden Project in in 2015, supporting its Nature Connections work on-site at Eden Project Cornwall. The Eden Project’s flagship community programme is The Big Lunch. Launched in 2009, and with the support of The National Lottery Community Fund, The Big Lunch has become a well-known annual event, bringing people together to support nature, share friendship and celebrate our diverse communities.
Sitting alongside our wider work to build shared spaces and strengthen cohesive communities, we are delighted to be anchoring The Big Lunch for the next three years, enabling the Eden Project to continue campaigning to bring millions of people together in neighbourhoods and communities UK wide.
Held each June as part of the national “Month of Community,” The Big Lunch encourages neighbours to connect by sharing food, fostering inclusivity, diversity, and a sense of togetherness. The event aims to reduce loneliness and isolation by promoting face-to-face interactions, helping to build friendlier and more connected neighbourhoods.
Over the years, The Big Lunch has grown significantly, with millions of people participating annually in thousands of events across the UK. It strengthens community ties, creates lasting friendships, and often supports charitable efforts or local causes with over £100m raised since 2015, 70% of which has been donated locally.