A new board game club in Birstall is helping to bring people together, with its founder hoping to combat loneliness and support mental health through simple, face-to-face interaction.
The group was set up by local board game enthusiast Richard Ludlam following a charity event last year, which inspired him to create something more regular for the community.
Picture credit: Richard Ludlam
“Since I did a charity event last year, it made me think I want to do this more often,” he said. “I wanted to create a space where anybody can come and enjoy the hobby – and socialise.”
The club offers a break from screen-based entertainment, encouraging people to meet in person rather than online.
“I think face-to-face interaction has declined,” Richard said. “During COVID, things like Teams and Skype were a great resource, but when it ended, it was good to get back to seeing people properly again.
“People miss that human interaction – and it’s good for your mental health.”
The sessions are designed to be informal and welcoming, with no pressure on attendees to socialise beyond their comfort level.
“It’s a nice, friendly space,” he added. “You can be as involved as you want. Some people might be a bit shy or socially awkward, but you can just sit at a table and play a game. You don’t even have to talk much – you’re still part of it.”
Richard said the club has already begun to grow, with numbers increasing week by week.
“We’ve probably had around a dozen on average, but one week we had more than 20 people,” he said. “It’s a real mix too – from children as young as six through to retired people.”
Picture: Richard Ludlam
The club also reflects a wider resurgence in board gaming, moving beyond traditional titles like Monopoly and Cluedo.
“There’s so much more to it now,” Richard explained. “There are loads of different themes and types of games – there’s something for everyone.”
He currently has around 150 games available, with a rotating selection brought along each week. Attendees can also request specific titles in advance.
While it is still early days, Richard hopes the group will make a lasting difference in the community.
“I like to think it will help people,” he said. “Even just getting people out of the house and into a welcoming environment can make a big difference.”
The club is run every other Sunday on a not-for-profit basis, with a small fee charged to cover venue costs.
“The first session is free, and after that it’s £5,” Richard explained. “If I could do it for free, I would – it’s not about profit, it’s just about covering the space and is something I’m really passionate about.”
Free tea, coffee and biscuits are also provided, helping to create a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere.
Richard added: “I just enjoy putting it on and seeing everyone else enjoying it. That’s what makes me want to keep doing more.”
The club meets every other Sunday in Birstall and is open to anyone interested in board games or simply looking to meet new people.
To find out more, search Birstall Games Club on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/4540401646172093/
