A Leeds woman battling loneliness and a 'bad headspace' reached out to the city for help - and was amazed by the response.
Lauren Burton decided to create a Facebook group in a bid to make new friends in Leeds, admitting she was sick of just sitting around on weekends, with her friends dotted across the country.
And after the 32-year-old opened up about her struggles in the popular Facebook group, Leedsplace, she was overwhelmed with how many women commented on the post saying they'd join.
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Starting in 2019, her group now has 800 members and are planning their first big social event.
Lauren said: "I wasn't in a good headspace when I came up with the idea for the group.
"I was really lonely - all my friends are dotted about across the country. I was sick of sitting around on a weekend and missed having my girlfriends.
"Within 30 minutes of putting the post on Leedsplace, my inbox was going crazy with hundreds of comments and some really sad messages."
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The messages made Lauren feel less alone and she arranged a coffee meeting for members.
The girls have since been on a trip to Malham Cove in North Yorkshire and out for cocktails, along with other fun activities. There's also a group especially for over 50s.
Laura said as Covid restrictions eased, involvement in the group and its events has increased.
She added: "It's turned my life around from before Christmas to now. I have so much to look forward to.
"I have made so many friends and people I can rely on. I get the nicest messages from people saying thank you."
The friendship group are hosting a spring party at Roxy Ballroom, which will be their first big event.
Lauren hopes members can arrange other events to tailor to everyone's hobbies. The group's aim is flexibility and is inclusive of all ages from early twenties to members in their seventies.
Lauren said: "It's been amazing and one of the best things I have ever done.
"Loneliness is really dangerous. If others are feeling like this then let's do something about it.
"After Covid everyone had such a difficult time and I feel like this group has given everyone something to look forward to.
"Everyone has been so grateful."
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