Love and laughter at North Town community centre

When we opened the new North Town community centre, it wasn't just about creating a building. It was about creating a place where people can connect, support one another and build community.

That's exactly what local group Love & Laughter is doing.

Founded to tackle loneliness and isolation, Love & Laughter provides a welcoming space where people can meet others, enjoy activities and feel part of their community.

"We very quickly realised that there are a lot of people at home living on their own, very lonely and isolated," explains Wendy, one of the group's organisers.

"We want to encourage people in the community to come through and have literally love and laughter with us."

The group offers a range of activities, from jigsaw puzzles, a hot drink to social sessions, but Wendy says their biggest focus is much simpler.

"Our main effort is to make sure that those isolated people have company."

That mission is being made possible thanks to the space they now have at our community centre.

"We are very grateful to VIVID for providing us with this unit."

The new community centre has given the group a permanent, welcoming base where local people can come together, form friendships and support one another.

And that only scratches the surface. The group told us that more and more groups are now using the space to connect with others and strengthen community ties. From martial arts classes run by a local sensei to arts and crafts groups and other activities, the centre has become a hub where people of all ages can come together.

For Wendy, the impact is already clear.

"VIVID are having a huge impact in the community by providing this facility."

Stories like this show the difference community spaces and groups can make. Alongside providing homes, we continue to play our part in helping communities flourish by creating opportunities for people to connect, build relationships and support each other.

As North Town begins its next chapter, groups like Love & Laughter are helping ensure nobody has to face loneliness alone.