Your Space Friendship Group in Northfield is proof that small ideas, backed by a little funding, can make a big difference. Meeting every Monday at the Black Horse Pub, the group welcomes people over 18 from all walks of life – carers, people living alone, those out of work, and anyone simply looking for company and conversation. With around 40 members and a regular attendance of 20–25, the group offers a friendly, flexible space where everyone is free to come and go as they please, share a meal or drink, and feel part of something.

Recognising how many people struggle with isolation, group organiser Nicola Lucas wanted to do something extra special to bring members together. With the help of a £500 microgrant from the Community Development Practice Hub, she arranged the group’s first-ever day trip – a visit to Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

Seventeen members took part, travelling by car, taxi, or public transport. For many, it was their first outing in years. The grant covered entry to the gardens, along with a small snack and drink, making the day affordable and inclusive for everyone. The trip gave people a reason to get out and enjoy nature in beautiful surroundings together – something that many said they wouldn’t have done without this support.

Feedback after the visit showed just how meaningful it was. Members spoke about how good it felt to be part of a group, to talk to others, and to make new friends in such a welcoming environment. The success of the trip has inspired the group to plan more activities, including a Christmas meal and even a short break to Blackpool next year.

For Nicola and the members, the grant has done far more than fund a single outing. It’s strengthened bonds, boosted confidence, and shown what’s possible when people come together with kindness and a shared purpose. The Your Space Friendship Group continues to grow – proving that sometimes, a chat over a cuppa really can change lives.

Some feedback from participants:

“I just wanted to say I really enjoyed that Saturday at the Botanical Gardens, as it made a great change of pace for me, in terms that it gave something to get up and out the house for…Here's to more times like the above, take care and thank you for those working behind the scenes who are trying and making things happen.”  Julian

“It was excellent meeting all the different people and talking, enjoying the gardens and the trees."   Kieran

“It was a great day out, I really enjoyed it – I couldn’t have done it on my own." Anon

The Community Development Practice Hub is an initiative funded by Birmingham City Council and led by BVSC which aims to develop creative ways for people to be actively involved in their local communities, to test and learn from new approaches to designing services which aim to make people’s lives healthier and happier.