OUR STORY
No one should manage
their health alone
Founded in Birmingham in 2015, Cuppa Squad grew from a simple observation — people living with long-term health conditions were saying “I wish we could keep meeting like this” after NHS education sessions ended.
HOW IT STARTED
From a cuppa to a community
Our founder, Kate Walker, was working alongside the NHS running long-term health education groups when she witnessed first-hand the power of people coming together to share and support one another.
Again and again, people would say, “I wish we could keep meeting like this.” That sparked an idea — to create a safe, welcoming space for ongoing support — and that became Cuppa Squad.
What started as a small monthly meetup with a few regulars has grown into something much bigger across many communities in Birmingham.
1,000+
10
10+
Free
HOW IT STARTED
From a cuppa to a community
Our founder, Kate Walker, was working alongside the NHS running long-term health education groups when she witnessed first-hand the power of people coming together to share and support one another.
Again and again, people would say, “I wish we could keep meeting like this.” That sparked an idea — to create a safe, welcoming space for ongoing support — and that became Cuppa Squad.
What started as a small monthly meetup with a few regulars has grown into something much bigger across many communities in Birmingham.
1,000+
10
10+
Free
What we do
Cuppa Squad provides free health advice, encouragement, and friendly support in local community groups and online. Sharing experiences with others over a cuppa really can do you good.
We’re always delighted when members find their wellbeing improves and life becomes more enjoyable again. That’s why our continuing mission is to make Cuppa Squad available to as many people as we can.
OUR MISSION
Making health conditions
easier to live with
Learning you have a long-term health condition can be dispiriting and overwhelming. You might be uncertain about how best to look after your health day-to-day, and you may even feel abandoned and alone.
Our groups welcome adults and children of all ages, each built on compassion, connection, and care. From diabetes to complex health needs, we provide the warmth and understanding that formal healthcare often can’t.
OUR MISSION
Making health conditions easier to live with
Learning you have a long-term health condition can be dispiriting and overwhelming. You might be uncertain about how best to look after your health day-to-day, and you may even feel abandoned and alone.
Our groups welcome adults and children of all ages, each built on compassion, connection, and care. From diabetes to complex health needs, we provide the warmth and understanding that formal healthcare often can’t.
What we do
Cuppa Squad provides free health advice, encouragement, and friendly support in local community groups and online. Sharing experiences with others over a cuppa really can do you good.
We’re always delighted when members find their wellbeing improves and life becomes more enjoyable again. That’s why our continuing mission is to make Cuppa Squad available to as many people as we can.
SEE US IN ACTION
Hear from our founder
Kate Walker shares the story behind Cuppa Squad — why she started it, what drives the team, and the difference a simple cuppa and conversation can make.
SEE US IN ACTION
Hear from our founder
Kate Walker shares the story behind Cuppa Squad — why she started it, what drives the team, and the difference a simple cuppa and conversation can make.
WHERE WE ARE NOW
A thriving network of support
Today, Cuppa Squad has grown into a thriving network of monthly group sessions across Birmingham, well attended from many age groups and built on the same foundation of compassion, connection, and care.
Growing our reach
We’re expanding beyond Birmingham, launching new groups across the wider West Midlands to meet growing demand in underserved communities. We partner with other charities and attend community events to raise awareness.
Working with the NHS
We work alongside healthcare professionals to integrate Cuppa Squad into social prescribing pathways — positioning ourselves as a prevention partner, supporting early intervention and reducing hospital admissions.
Stronger sessions
We’re growing and strengthening our existing groups, offering more structured education sessions, guest speakers, and tailored resources for our members.
Sustainable future
We’re expanding beyond Birmingham, launching new groups across the wider West Midlands to meet growing demand in underserved communities. We partner with other charities and attend community events to raise awareness.
“It’s actually really good to talk to people that are in the same boat. You will understand better than somebody who isn’t suffering from the symptoms that you’ve got. I find that quite helpful because it’s like there’s somebody standing next to me and helping me through it.”
THE TEAM
The people behind the cuppa
A dedicated group of volunteers who keep Cuppa Squad running.
John
Chief Executive Officer
Kiran
Assistant Lead Facilitator
Jack
Office Manager
Ellie
Social Media & Marketing
Martha
Social Media & Marketing
We'd love to meet you
No referral needed. Just turn up, grab a cuppa, and be yourself. Our groups are free, friendly, and open to everyone.