Tell us about your organisation, why and how you started, and what you do?
CP Friends was created to bring people together, encourage friendship, and help combat the isolation and loneliness often felt by adults with disabilities.
It all started with a simple idea. While chatting with people at The Hub, Ashmore Park, we realised there was a real need for a safe, welcoming space where people could socialise. So, we decided to hire a room, advertise on social media, and invite people along to a relaxed “Fun Friday” – complete with free tea and cakes!
Since then, the group has grown into a vibrant, supportive community where people can connect, make friends, and enjoy spending time together.
Everyone who comes along can expect a warm, friendly welcome in a safe and accessible space – with plenty of laughs along the way.
Alongside our Fun Fridays, we organise Ten Pin Bowling sessions, meals out, and trips to local pubs. This summer, we enjoyed a brilliant canal boat trip with Wildside Activity Centre’s fully accessible boat – complete with fish and chips! With the right funding, we’d love to do more of these kinds of outings and maybe even venture a little further afield if transport can be arranged.
What has been your greatest achievement?
One of our proudest achievements has been growing the group from just six members to around 40 regular attendees!
We’ve also worked hard to raise small funds through regular tombolas, which enable us to organise social activities such as bowling, meals out, and other trips.
Looking ahead, we have big dreams – including getting a wheelchair-accessible minibus so we can take CP Friends to places they wouldn’t otherwise be able to visit using public transport.
We’re incredibly proud of the positive impact CP Friends has on people’s lives. One young woman, for example, moved to the area without any friends or social connections. After meeting us at a bowling session, she began coming along regularly – and later told us how much it had changed her life, helping her find a real friendship group. Others have shared similar stories, saying the group has given them a sense of belonging they didn’t have before.
Our first birthday celebration was a real highlight – full of fun, laughter, and pride at reaching such an important milestone.
What is your experience of support received from WVCA?
We’ve received guidance from WVCA, especially as we explore the possibility of moving towards a formalised structure in the future. Their advice has been invaluable so far, and we look forward to continuing to work with them as we develop.
What advice would you give to others looking to set up a voluntary group in Wolverhampton?
Go for it! Starting a group like this can make a huge difference in people’s lives.
The positive feedback we’ve received from members has been amazing and demonstrates just how important these spaces are to our community.
When the group first started, we relied on social media to help spread the word. We’ve also visited other local groups and organisations to raise awareness of CP Friends.
Have you benefited from any funding opportunities or resources shared through WVCA’s newsletters or social media?
Thanks to WVCA, we discovered Wildside’s Community Networking Events – focused on people with additional needs – where we’ve been able to share information about what we do and connect with others.
We regularly keep an eye on WVCA’s Facebook updates and newsletters and plan to apply for funding when suitable opportunities come up.
What are some of the challenges you face, and how can WVCA support you in the future?
One of our primary challenges is securing funding, particularly as we plan more outings and activities for our members. Financial advice and guidance on available grants would be a big help in helping us achieve our goals.
Where can we find out more about your organisation?
Would you like to be featured in our Voluntary Sector Spotlight? Contact Olatz on VCSsupport@wvca.org.uk for more info!