I’m Luke, the Founder of The Friendship Network. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong, this space was created with you in mind.

In 2020, I found myself homeless. Eventually I secured temporary accommodation, which gave me a bit more stability. But it wasn’t the cold or lack of stability that got to me the most - it was feeling completely invisible. That deep sense of isolation stayed with me, even when my housing situation started to improve.

Before this, I’d spent most of my life feeling like an outsider, even in a room full of people. And living with ADHD didn’t make it any easier. I struggled with focus, routine and social situations… things that seemed to come naturally to others. I could be full of energy and ideas one minute, then completely burnt out and overwhelmed the next. 

After hitting rock bottom, I started to rebuild my life. A close friend, Sam, opened up to me about his own struggles with loneliness. Despite working and living a “normal” life, he felt disconnected, which made it hard for him to meet new people. It was this conversation that reminded me so many other people are quietly feeling the same way.

That’s why I created The Friendship Network - a community built on real human connection. A space where people can feel safe, heard, and welcomed, no matter their background or circumstances.

If you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong - you belong here!

I’ve set myself a big target: to help 10 million people in the UK feel more connected. Because I believe that nobody should feel like they’re going through life alone.

Since launching, we’ve grown to over 1,000 members in just a month. We’ve hosted regular events including meals, games nights and walks, all designed to help people feel part of something.

We keep it simple and friendly. No pressure, just a chance to make new connections.