"I have found family at South London Cares"

Please note: this post is 88 months old and The Cares Family is no longer operational. This post is shared for information only

Energised, fulfilled and lucky are just three of the words I would use to describe how I feel after a visit to one of the South London Cares social clubs.  I have a busy job and will often go along after work. Many times I have been drained and tired beforehand, but never have I felt like that afterwards.

How can South London Cares make me feel like that? Well, there are many reasons. It's one of the few opportunities I have to spend quality time simply engaging with other people, with no mobile phone in my hand, no distractions and no deadlines.  The people are no ordinary people: they have a wealth of knowledge and experience, they always have a story to tell and they expect nothing in return for sharing all of this.

From Pat to Rene to Peter, in a city where so many people do not have family, I have found family at South London Cares.  Before going along, I thought I was free from prejudice, but I soon realised that I'd assumed advancing years would take away creativity, determination and zest for life. I was wrong.  The creative writing workshop, brilliantly run by volunteer Emily, never ceases to amaze me, as my older friends demonstrate incredible breadth of thought, triggering mental brilliance I wouldn't be capable of alone. 

For those of us who think we know London, South London Cares makes us realise that we have lots to learn.  From stories of lazing on the 'beach' next to the London Bridge, to how life used to be in Brixton before skinny jeans were commonplace, to realising that the rather non-descript looking community centre behind Stockwell tube is actually a far more entertaining place than the pub behind Clapham Junction. 

Over a year ago my friend asked me to give South London Cares a try, I will always be grateful and happy that I gave it a go.  I'd encourage anyone, whatever their background to give it a try and open themselves up to the possibility of one of the richest experiences London has to offer.