Introducing Our New Friendship 4 All Service in Oxfordshire

We are excited to announce the launch of our new Friendship 4 All service, a social group for adults with learning disabilities in Oxfordshire was a great success. After expanding our Friendship 4 All service from Hertfordshire, we hosted our very first meeting in Oxfordshire. We’re thrilled that we have been able to start creating more opportunities for connection and fun for people with learning disabilities our community.

We’re proud to offer Friendship 4 All in Oxfordshire free of charge, thanks to a grant from OCVA (Oxfordshire Community & Voluntary Action) through their Connected Communities Fund. This support makes it possible for us to launch and develop the group during its first year.

F4All in Oxfordshire is a monthly social activity, both online and in person that gives individuals with learning disabilities the chance to make friends, develop relationships, and enjoy life with others who share their interests. We’ve planned a wide range of activities, from meet-ups at local pubs and games like bowling and crazy golf to online quiz nights, music sessions, arts and crafts, and even larger trips and days out. All these activities are supported by our dedicated team of support workers and volunteers, ensuring a safe, accessible, and welcoming environment for everyone.

“Friendship and meeting people are really important to me. The group was brilliant on Thursday, everybody was chatty and helpful. I wouldn’t be able to go to these places on my own.”

Friendship 4 All member

Our First Event: A Warm Welcome at the Wig & Pen

Our first gathering took place at the Wig & Pen pub in Oxford, and it was fantastic to see everyone come together. The group ranged in ages from 25 to 55, with members coming from all over Oxfordshire, from Wantage, Banbury, and beyond. Some members who have specific care needs brought along a carer, which helped everyone feel comfortable and supported.

The pub staff went above and beyond to make sure everyone’s dietary needs and preferences were met. The atmosphere was lively and friendly, everyone was chatting, smiling, and enjoying each other’s company. The pub’s regulars, were also very welcoming, which added to the sense of community. It was a wonderful start, sharing food and drinks in a social setting, which is something that not all the members with learning disabilities get to experience.

“We’re very lucky to have a wonderful team of volunteers, many with experience supporting people with different needs. Their gentle approach helps spark conversations and makes everyone feel included.”

Tim Hooper, our Oxfordshire Services Manager,

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The Importance Of Friendship

At Guideposts, we believe that taking people out of their usual routines is incredibly important. Many of the individuals we support can feel isolated, often socialising only with family at home. We want to change that. Joining a friendship group offers a new sense of independence, boosts confidence, and allows people’s personalities to shine. It’s about giving everyone a chance to experience fun and friendship in a safe environment.

When we were developing Friendship 4 All, we asked potential participants what they most wanted from the group. The answer was clear to make friends and have fun. Whether it’s enjoying an evening out in Oxford, taking part in an online quiz, or going on a day trip to the seaside or a theme park, it’s all about spending quality time with others who understand and share similar experiences.

We’ve also taken inspiration from our Friendship 4 All group in Hertfordshire, which has been running successfully for many years. We’re excited about the possibility of members from Oxfordshire connecting with others from Hertfordshire and beyond, helping to build friendships across the country.

Looking Forward

Launching Friendship 4 All in Oxfordshire is just the beginning. Our hope is that more people will experience the joy of friendship, enjoy new adventures, and feel more connected within their community. We’re excited to see where this journey takes us and look forward to many more smiling faces and meaningful friendships in the months ahead.

If you are interested in joining Friendship 4 All in Oxfordshire or Hertfordshire, you can find out more information here.