When it comes to the North Belfast Friendship Club, one thing is for sure – a very warm welcome awaits you.
The Belfast Unemployed Resource Centre (BURC) initiative – run at such ease, and with heartfelt dedication, by welcoming volunteers – is in its 10th year and later in the summer will mark the impressive milestone.
In what is a homely, intimate setting, it’s tea, buns, biscuits (you name it), games and conversation aplenty.
With music playing from the kitchen area – such as the sublime sounds of reggae great Bob Marley – it really is a relaxed atmosphere where you can get to know people.
Shahzad Malik is a volunteer at the club. Although different people come and go, and all equally welcome, he particularly wants to praise those people who attend regularly.
“They are coming here regularly, every week, spending time, giving time and having fun, so I want to appreciate them,” he said.
“This Friendship Club is a place where people can meet at least once a week. A lot of people are isolating themselves and need some social gathering,” Shahzad added.
“My message is to all those people who are just trying to find some place where they can spend a bit of time and have some fun with games and share their things, share their experiences, other than religious or politics… we don’t speak on these topics.
“Anybody who feels that they need some time to have a good time with friends or with new people… it’s the best place to come and spend time.
“Just two hours in a week and you will feel that your time is not wasted.”
Aisling Cartmill, co-ordinator, Belfast Unemployed Resource Centre added: “The North Belfast Friendship Club is for anyone in the North Belfast area and is family friendly. People are free to join us anytime between 6.00pm and 8.00pm, on a Tuesday evening on a drop-in basis, for some chat, games, music, company and free tea and coffee, or practise English.
“BURC are pleased to support the Club, as we feel it is essential for people to have a safe space to come, relax, meet new people and just be. It is an open, relaxed and friendly environment.
“The venue on Frederick Street is easily accessible and a welcoming environment.”
The North Belfast Friendship Club runs every Tuesday from 6-8pm at the Meeting House in Frederick Street.
Picture: Shahzad Malik