Words by Steph Porter / Pic supplied by Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)
Friendship is a vital part of life.
Having people to share experiences with and talk to creates a sense of belonging that can be deeply grounding. Not only does friendship support social wellbeing, it’s also linked to improved brain function, lower anxiety, and even longer life expectancy.
For many young people, friendship is everything – messages from friends that wake them up, football at break, deep conversations at lunch, time in the park, or evenings at their local youth club. It’s how they explore the world, build social skills, and develop a sense of self.
You rarely see young people alone, and that’s something to be celebrated. We want young people to experience the joy and growth that comes through connection.
Recent programmes like Adolescence on Netflix have highlighted just how formative these years are, and how vital it is for young people not only to experience healthy friendships, but also to have safe, trusted adults walking alongside them as they navigate the highs and lows of growing up.
Of course, friendship isn’t always easy. Peer pressure, feelings of exclusion, and the pressure to fit in can make it complicated.
That’s why, at UDB, we are passionate about creating spaces where friendship can truly thrive, whether that’s in our clubs or out in the community.
We’re also committed to being a listening ear when young people face worries or fallouts, and we’re privileged to walk alongside them as they figure out this essential part of life.
For more on Urban Devotion Birmingham visit www.urbandevotion.org
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