Sutton Befrienders groups and activities

As well as our 1:1 befriending programme, we also run a number of group activities to help adults of all ages feel better connected to their community. As coronavirus restrictions continue to ease, we look forward to expanding what we can offer so keep an eye on this page. You can also follow our Facebook page for updates.

Walking Groups

Our sociable walking groups set up by Sutton Befrienders are to help people in the community get active, have fun and enjoy the benefits of walking in a safe and friendly group.

They are open to anyone who may enjoy a nice walk with some company so please feel free to come along on your own or with a friend. No need to book, just turn up and look out for the walk leaders in their blue high vis jackets.

Don’t worry if you think you walk slowly. Each walk has at least two leaders so that the group can split into two groups with slightly different paces. The main aim of these groups is for people to meet others, get a little fresh air and hopefully enjoy themselves!

All walks start at 10.30am and last about 45 minutes:

Mondays: Beddington Park (Meet opposite St Mary's Church, Church Road, Wallington - click here for Google map directions)

Wednesdays: The Grove, Carshalton (Meet at gate by Westcroft Leisure Centre, Carshalton - click here for Google map directions) 

Thursdays: Nonsuch Park, Cheam (Meet at the Nonsuch Mansion Cafe, Nonsuch Park - click here for Google map directions)

Walking Tennis

In partnership with Comic Relief and Sutton Churches Tennis Club, come along and enjoy tennis outdoors at a gentler pace, improve your fitness and make new friends in these sessions for over 60's.

The 6 week courses are free but places limited. Booking essential. Equipment provided. Contact us on befriending@vcsutton.org.uk or 020 8661 5900

Walking Tennis Feedback – July 2023 

I recently had the opportunity to join the sponsored walking tennis run by Gill. This was such a wonderful initiative to connect people. We have been in the area for over a year but didn’t get to interact with locals and whilst we are physically in reasonable health, we felt isolated. Joined with trepidation expecting a pretentiously superior tennis coach but could not have been more wrong. Kirsty is an absolutely brilliant teacher, patient, forgiving with a sense of humour. Sessions were very enjoyable and mentally satisfying I got some nuggets from Kirsty that will help our game. The events are so well organised by Gill, communication is speedy and excellent, and she creates a friendly safe environment. I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to have met them both and been part of the sessions. We now feel encouraged to continue the physical exercise and as result of this group, have been able to participate in other community events giving us a sense of ‘place’ and belonging. (Rina) 

The course allows me to learn / refresh proper skills in a systematic approach.  The use of small rackets and soft balls help us easily learn the skills. Kirsty treats every participant fairly that each of us has chance to practise with her or her assistant. She is so nice and encourages each of us to enjoy the course. Thanks for the Sutton Befrienders and other associations in organise such free course for aged with good equipment in an easily accessible location. (Mei Seung) 

The Walking Tennis Course has improved my physical health by building my endurance and strength. It is a supportive group and I have made new friendships. It has provided a sense of fulfilment and something to feel good about. I have thoroughly enjoyed it. (Hazel) 

I am enjoying the walking tennis. It's fun learning in a group of similar ability.  Kirsty is very patient with us. I have also tried cardio tennis, which I enjoyed. How about walking cardio tennis? I find its good for balance and fitness. I didn't realize just collecting balls was so energetic. (Lynda) 

Music and Movement

Join us for free Music and Movement sessions, they are fun, low impact exercise to music and stay afterwards for a chat and a drink.

Led by our dance instructor, Issy, all abilities are welcome.

Music & Movement sessions are held at a number of locations around the borough 

  • Button House, 6 Spinning Wheel Way, Hackbridge, SM6 7GD 
  • Dorothy Pettingell House, 6 Vermont Road, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 3EQ
  • Seven Acres & Marfleet Close, off Fellowes Road, Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 2SZ

Please contact us for dates, times and availability on befriending@vcsutton.org.uk or 020 8661 5900

Men's Club

Our monthly Men’s Club, in partnership with Sutton Housing Association, meet to discuss activities that are interest to them, this ranges from outings, history/heritage walks and session playing Pool, Darts and broad games, and trips out to museums and places of interest. 

They meet on the last Wednesday of each month. Times and locations vary subject to the planned activity, so please contact Gill for more details gillnolan@vcsutton.org.uk or 020 8661 5900.

If you know someone who you think may benefit from one of our activities but might need a bit of encouragement, please feel free to refer them to us, with their consent. We will make contact with them to arrange for one of our volunteers to meet them and introduce them to the group and accompany them until they are more confident. To make a referral please email befriending@vcsutton.org.uk or call on 020 8661 5900.