The Empathy Holistic Buddies CIC was born from the heart of Empathy Holistics.
In the years following the pandemic, we saw a real need for families to reconnect — to feel supported, to share space, and to nurture their mental wellbeing.
So I, Emma King, alongside my two wonderful directors, Mary-Jane Saunders and Tracey Jones, founded this brilliant tribe — one filled with amazing families and a true sense of community spirit.
We’re not just a session — we’re a kindness movement 💛. A space where people find support when they need it most, or simply a reason to get out of the house and rediscover that sense of belonging that we all need sometimes.
💫 Who We Are
Also known as The Buddies Tribe, we are a community-led, not-for-profit social enterprise supporting families through connection, calm, and community.
We believe in holding space for all families — with empathy, understanding, and open arms. A place where little ones and their grown-ups can explore, grow, and feel at home — indoors and out in nature alike.
💛 At the Heart of What We Do
🌿 Holistic wellbeing – nurturing minds, bodies, and hearts 💫 Imaginative play – sparking curiosity and creativity 💛 Meaningful connection – between families, nature, and community 🫶 Inclusive support – where every family is valued and welcomed
🌼 What We Offer
We host indoor and outdoor “Calm Buddies Playgroup” sessions, as well as “Baby Buddies & You” sessions — all lovingly designed with you and your child in mind (for ages 0–5 years).
Each session invites gentle exploration, play, and connection for both you and your little one — perfect if you have more than one child to entertain.
We’re committed to being an accessible, inclusive community where no one is left out.
To book a space on any of our sessions, please go to Buddies Tribe for more info!
💬 What Our Families Say
“Really lovely, well thought out and planned sessions. My little ones both really enjoyed themselves. Would definitely recommend and will be back!”
“We love our sessions with Empathy Holistic Buddies – Emmy is lovely with the babies, and it’s a really friendly group of people. It’s lovely to see all the little ones growing and learning together We especially love the mixture of indoor and outdoor activities (plus a hot cup of tea for me!) “
Katherine & Laurie, 2025
🌟 Our Journey So Far
Over the past three years, we’ve been incredibly grateful to receive support and funding from some wonderful organisations who believe in what we do.
Thanks to funding from the Bolton Community Fund, Co-op UK, Bury Lions Club, and the GM Walking & Wheeling Fund, we’ve been able to run outdoor Walk & Talk Baby Buddies sessions, two thriving community playgroups, and so much more!
This year, we’re thrilled to share that we’ve secured funding from the Let’s Make a Difference Fund to run four wellbeing retreat days over the next 12 months — specially designed for families who have experienced the special care baby system or have multiple births.
And as if that wasn’t exciting enough, we’re honored to have been chosen as one of three local causes for the Tesco Stronger Starts Appeal in our local Ramsbottom store! And a possibility of funding through a ‘Trading For Good’ Social Enterprise UK business course (still hear whether we have been accepted onto this)
If you would like anymore information about how you can help or become part of the tribe, please don’t hesitate in contacting us through the form below!
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