Selly Oak’s local wellbeing space grounded. will host its first-ever Buddy Morning on Tuesday 17 December 2024, at 10:00-12:30, inviting the community to come together for a day of connection and conversation. Designed to tackle loneliness during the festive season, this special one-off event will unite residents from Evan’s Cottages Homes with volunteers at grounded. for a warm and inclusive morning at the Selly Oak café.

The event offers members of the community the opportunity to form meaningful connections over shared stories, light-hearted conversations, and a warm cup of coffee provided by the grounded. in store cafe. The morning will be overseen by members of the grounded. clinical team, ensuring a safe and positive environment for all.

The festive season is often seen as a time of togetherness, but for many, it can also be marked by isolation. Whether it’s older individuals with limited social contact or younger adults navigating life away from family, loneliness can have profound effects on mental and physical wellbeing. grounded. is committed to impacting the life of the local community, and the Buddy Morning is designed to bring neighbours of all generations together to combat these feelings of isolation.

Ren Barnes, Wellbeing Assistant at grounded., shares their thoughts on the initiative:

“The festive season can be an especially challenging time for those who feel alone, and Buddy Morning is our way of creating a space where people can come together and feel part of something meaningful. 

By uniting older residents from Evan’s Cottages Homes with our members and volunteers, we hope to build bridges between generations, foster understanding, and remind everyone of the joy of human connection. We’re excited to see the positive impact this event will have on the local community.”

The morning will feature an informal "speed-friending" format, where participants will rotate through a series of short, one-on-one chats. Cue cards with thoughtful and light-hearted questions will help to spark natural conversation, giving those taking part the chance to share interests and perspectives on a range of topics. The event aims to celebrate the unique stories and experiences the participants bring to the table, encouraging connections that span generations.

At its heart, the Buddy Morning is about more than just conversation; it’s about creating genuine moments of connection that will brighten the festive season for those who need it the most. By bridging the gap between generations, grounded. hopes to inspire empathy, understanding, and a sense of community in the city.

At its heart, the Buddy Morning is about creating small yet meaningful moments of connection that can brighten what will feel like an isolating time of year for many. By bringing together residents of Evan’s Cottages Homes and volunteers from grounded., this special morning is a chance to share stories, laughter, and a sense of togetherness in the Selly Oak community.