Sustaining crafts and activities for the over 50s.

Do something active and creative every day - the motto of Fircone.

Fircone (Friends in Retirement) was started in 1962 to offer support on finance, housing and health to those about to retire (this was pre-internet days).  It soon became apparent that loneliness was also a major problem and so crafts, activities and learning opportunities were offered by volunteers in 1966 to anyone over 50 who wished to keep body and mind active and interested as well as the social contact so necessary to our well being.

Loneliness is still a problem for many.  Activities aimed at those over 50 are the main purpose of the charity and with volunteers still leading the groups, we have a range on offer including art (drawing, oils, water colours), Bridge, Bowls, Line Dancing, Keep Fit, Knit and Natter, Local History, Music (hootenanny, jazz appreciation, woodwind), Photography, Tai Chi, Walking, and Wood Carving. Our members come from all over Birmingham and beyond, at least once a week. Member subscription of £3.50 per attendance (plus one off £10 life membership) currently helps keep Fircone running on a day to day basis.

Our sister premises in Birmingham City Centre were permanently closed last year during the pandemic and we now would like to make more use of our premises in Hall Green South to absorb those from the City Centre and expand the courses offered. We have already re-purposed the old kitchen in the adjacent house to make office space but need to raise funds to continue refurbishing the rest of the house to make it fit for purpose.  This will involve decorating the premises throughout, and completely refitting the kitchen and bathroom.

Now would be an ideal time to get this work done so that when we are able to open again we shall be ready to welcome back our previous members, attract new members and provide more activities.

Why not browse our REWARDS for some interesting options to participate.  If you are under 50, you may nominate a friend or relative or just donate and know that you are helping us to survive and grow.  

                  'Being creative is not a hobby, it is a way of life.'

                                        Please!         

                Donations of any amount, however small, 

                will be welcomed and much appreciated.

Should you wish instead to donate by cheque, this should be made out to the                                               Birmingham Retirement Council,                                                          and sent to: 1237 Stratford Rd, Hall Green, Birmingham, B28 9AA.