Recognising the Renfrewshire Ladies Social Group and its Contribution to Tackling Loneliness

That the Parliament recognises the outstanding contribution of the Renfrewshire Ladies Social Group to tackling loneliness and social isolation across Renfrewshire; notes that the group was founded in 2022 with the simple aim of providing women of all ages and backgrounds with a welcoming space to meet others, make friends and feel part of their local community; recognises that what began as a small initiative has grown into a thriving community of almost 3,000 women; commends the founder, Rachael Smith, for dedicating her own time to establishing, organising and developing the group, entirely on a voluntary basis; understands that the group provides a wide range of regular social events and activities across Renfrewshire and the surrounding areas, including coffee meet-ups, lunches, walks, creative workshops, talks, day trips, jewellery making, cocktail making, movie nights, sushi classes and visits to animal sanctuaries; recognises the importance of members being encouraged to organise their own events, helping the group to remain community led; further recognises the positive impact the group has had on women who may have experienced loneliness, isolation or a lack of confidence, with members reporting that the group has provided them with a safe and welcoming environment in which they feel included, seen and heard, while helping many to develop meaningful friendships and become more connected to their local community; welcomes the creation of the Renfrewshire Board Gamers Group and the Renfrewshire Food & Friends Group, which were subsequently established to provide further opportunities for people to tackle loneliness and social isolation through shared interests, conversation, food and social activities; acknowledges that these initiatives also provide valuable support to local cafés, restaurants, venues and other businesses by bringing groups of local people through their doors and creating opportunities for businesses and community groups to work together; recognises the wider value of grassroots community initiatives in strengthening communities, improving social connections and supporting wellbeing, and commends the dedication, generosity and community spirit demonstrated by the founder of the Renfrewshire Ladies Social Group in developing a network which now involves thousands of local people and makes a positive contribution to the lives of individuals, the wider Renfrewshire community and the local economy.