About Us
Nakayoshikai - The Japanese Friendship Group
We are a registered charity that aims to eliminate loneliness and isolation in parenting and promote Japanese language and culture
（Registered Charity No.1212136）
History of Nakayoshikai
The Japanese Friendship Group was founded in 1990 in North Finchley by Mrs. Kay Laurie and other Japanese mothers raising children.
Back then there were no mobile phones or internet, and international calls were extremely expensive. Many Japanese mothers living in the UK struggled with language barriers and not having a community to rely on. This led to numerous cases of postpartum depression and some even took their own lives. Against this backdrop, Nakayoshikai was established to prevent such tragedies and provide a space for parents to connect while promoting Japanese culture and language.
Postpartum depression and parenting in isolation remain challenges and it is essential to meet people face-to-face, talk, connect, and build a community.
Those who struggled to make local friends and felt so lonely that they cried daily, those seeking a place to converse in Japanese, and those wanting to pass on Japanese culture and language to their children have joined Nakayoshikai and found joy again.
Postpartum depression can affect anyone, and parenting abroad often leads to feelings of isolation. Additionally, when children who have grown up in Japan move to the UK, they may find adapting to an English-speaking environment challenging and having a Japanese community is a source of comfort for them. Once your community expands, your life will also become more enjoyable.
Yuko Murao
CEO
Our team
Nakayoshikai is an organization run by volunteers. All members are mums and dads who are actively parenting. Each member takes on roles based on their individual areas of expertise.
Volunteer with us
We welcome volunteers to participate in our activities and contribute to our mission. Whether you’re passionate about parenting, interested in social impact, or simply want to be part of a supportive community, we encourage you to get in touch with us. Let’s make a positive difference together!