Social group transforms lives in Wolverhampton

Carol Whittaker (right) and her carer Dawn Richards (left) visit the group every Monday

People living in Wolverhampton have said joining a social group has transformed their lives.

The weekly meet-up, run by a partnership called WV10 Consortium, aims to combat social isolation in people over 50 by providing hot food, crafts and conversation.

Held at Fifth Avenue Community Centre, Low Hill, the Funday Monday group has seen a huge demand since it started in November with classes reaching full capacity.

Carol Whittaker, 70, who has from short-term memory loss after being diagnosed with a brain tumour, said the meet-ups had given her a sense of purpose.

"I've met so many people and I'm not frightened to speak to someone anymore," she said.

The former nursery nurse said craft activities at the centre brought back happy memories of working in schools.

Kevin Turner loves to play music from his record collection during the meet-ups

Kevin Turner, 66, plays his collection of more than 1,000 records during the events.

He says he swapped his first vinyl for some marbles when he was about 11 years old and has been collecting records ever since.

"My favourite part is coming here because it uplifts you and you know you're going to meet your friends," he said.

"It's a great little hub, a feel good thing to do and it sets you up for the week."

Wendy Brown loves to take part in craft activities which keep her active

Wendy Brown said the group has kept her active since she started going to the meet-ups about eight months ago.

"Everybody has become my friend, it keeps me going and I meet good people who are very loving," she said.

Ms Brown also attends cooking classes on a Wednesday and is making a booklet to help her remember her crafty creations.

Louisa Edwards (left) and Kim Payne (right) are managers at WV10 Consortium

Manager Louisa Edwards described the centre as a buzzing place that gives people a sense of purpose.

"This group started with four people. Now we've discussed having a second class because of a high demand," she said.

Ms Edwards appealed for volunteers to come forward to help run the centre and activity groups.

Members of the group spend time painting, knitting and creating booklets of their artwork