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Laura Cooper’s initiative to combat loneliness has blossomed into an expansive community connecting hundreds of women. Within only a few hours of starting a social media post, she was overwhelmed by over 100 responses, and the support kept surging. A year later, the Scunthorpe Lovely Ladies group has grown to include 926 women who share how the friendship circle has helped them regain a sense of belonging and renewed self-worth. “It’s been amazing, it’s changed my life,” Laura expresses, emphasizing that the group has restored her confidence and made her feel like her old self again.
At 43 years old, Laura created the group following a period of isolation after moving home and recovering from illness. News of her project spread far beyond local boundaries, attracting members from as far away as France and Guyana. Media attention has followed, with Laura receiving invitations to appear on morning TV shows and feature in women’s magazines. Laura describes the experience as “heart-warming” and shares how she even had a makeover on Good Morning Britain. For her, the widespread response highlights the reality of loneliness many face and the positive impact that cultivating friendship can have. “I’ve just created this from nothing. It’s positive and it’s needed, I believe,” she says.
The group’s regular meetings often take place at the Priory pub in Scunthorpe, where despite rainy weather outside, the atmosphere inside is warm and welcoming. Laura notes the ongoing arrival of new members, many joining through word of mouth from friends and family. “The positivity thing – everyone brings everybody up – we always meet with a hug, there’s always a smile – it’s a loving, warm group,” she explains. The group has provided a lifeline for many, including Lucy Robinson, who experienced profound loneliness after losing her nan and stepfather within six months. Lucy recalls, “I’d literally just stay in bed,” before joining the group shortly after seeing Laura’s social media post. She says, “It makes you feel amazing. It makes you feel wanted and that you are part of something.”
The group doesn’t operate as a charity or subscription-based club; instead, members cover their own expenses for events, while funds collected from raffles are used for community activities such as their upcoming Christmas party. Social outings have included memorable nights out, such as one in Cleethorpes where some attendees enjoyed themselves so much they missed the last train and had to find local accommodation. Members like Monika Lear and Rosie Cook share how the group has significantly impacted their lives. Monika, who recently moved to Scunthorpe, is now actively organizing events, while Rosie describes the group as offering vital mental health support. Laura’s ambition to keep growing the group remains strong, stating, “It’ll keep going on and on as far as I can keep going. I’m going to take this to the top, hopefully.” Marjory Dunning sums it up by saying, “Laura will not be satisfied until she’s got every lonely and isolated lady in the district – she’s always looking for them.”
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