The International Day of Friendship falls on July 30 this year. It was established in 2011 by the United Nations as a way to raise awareness of the importance of bringing together people, countries, cultures and individuals to inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities.

At Compass Support, the charitable subsidiary of The Pioneer Group, we believe that life is always better with the addition of friendly faces with which we can share ups and downs with, do interesting activities with and get support from. We have ongoing, a number of fun event activities where residents can pop along to for a chat, to meet new people or to learn a new skill.

Befriending Service

Compass Support, together with Ageing Better in Tyburn are working together to get eldering residents involved in community activities. Local volunteers and team members arrange regular social visits with residents whether its spending time outdoors or simply popping over for a cuppa and a chat.

Ageing Better in Birmingham

Operating from The Sanctuary in Castle Vale, this scheme aims to reduce loneliness for people over 50 and give residents a change to connect with others. A range of access to emotional support is on offer through a variety of activities. These include visits from volunteers, walk and talk sessions and regular community cafes. As part of the Ageing Better Birmingham, Compass Support welcomes anyone who would like to volunteer and participate in arranging the activities for the over 50s.

Volunteer programme

There’s no better way to meet friendly faces, learn new skills while making a big difference to the lives of others in the community than by volunteering. There is a range of volunteer opportunities to suit availability and interests from litter picking, to Community Organisers.

Computer Club

Navigating a world that is increasingly digital can be daunting and isolating if you don’t know where to begin. Local residents that want to develop digital skills and make the most of the online world can attend free of charge sessions every Friday from 9.30am-12.30pm at The Sanctuary. Here, attendees can learn how to use computers and devices and online basics such as texting, emailing, video calling.

Community pop-up cafes

Monthly drop-in sessions where residents could discuss local issues and concerns, community ideas or drop-in for a coffee and a friendly chat with the team.

Youth mentoring programme

Compass Support runs a free of charge mentoring programme to support those between the ages of 10 to 18 lead richer lives both at school and at home. The initiative offers an opportunity for young people to connect with mentors and improve their social, emotional and mental health and obtain tailor-made strategies to address key areas of concern.

For further information about these activities and others, please contact Compass Support by email: contactus@compass-support.org.uk or call on: +44 (0)121 748 8111.