Juliette Leon

Thirty something Juliette from Coventry, prides herself on her happy-go-lucky outlook. Mum to a teenager, by day she’s a sales and marketing executive and a singer songwriter by night. Friends describe her as 'nuts'.

What has been the strangest circumstance in which you have met a friend?

My best friend without a doubt! We met when we were four years old in a playground. I noticed her as she had two big black eyes from falling off a roundabout. I guess I felt sorry for her so went over and started playing with her. 30 years on, we’re still best friends but she now pities me!

What’s your Friends Reunited story?

I’ve always been an extremely friendly person so I guess that’s why I was lumbered with the task of arranging all of our school reunions. The first one I arranged was 10 years ago and contacting everyone was nothing short of a nightmare. This year’s one was much more successful thanks to Friends Reunited as I just sent out a mass email to everyone. 20 of us got together in the end.

What makes you a good friend?

I love a good secret and my friends know that they can trust me to keep it. I’ll make sure I’m free to talk to anyone that is willing to open up.

What’s your view on the state of friendship in Britain today and how it has changed?

Personally I feel as though Britain isn’t as friendly as it used to be. 30 years ago you couldn’t walk to the shops without stopping and talking to at least three people. Today, if you even so much as smile at a stranger as you pass them, they look at you like you’re a raving nutter. I don’t think people value friendships in the same way anymore either. The community spirit is certainly not as strong.

How have your friends shaped who you are?

I’ve definitely learnt a lot from my friends’ differences. I wouldn’t be such a great mum if I hadn’t been taught about motherhood from my friends and I’m sure a few of them have shaped my social life! Every aspect of my life has been shaped by friends, even down to mundane things like my choice of recipes.

What’s the friendliest thing you’ve ever done for somebody?

I’m actually famous for constantly feeding people! Chocolate seems to be my most popular offering so I often pop to the shop at lunchtime to stock the office up! I’m also a big softie and always stop and help someone in need. If someone looks lost, I’ll go over and try to help them.

What makes your best friend special?

We’re very similar actually. We’re both loyal and love animals but above all she likes Smurfs and that’s a winner with me!

What qualities do you look for in a friend?

I really don’t think there is anything specific to be honest. It’s very rare for me not to like someone. Unless they were nasty people, I’d be anyone’s friend! My friends all come from a variety of cultures and backgrounds. I suppose I find it easier to get closer to people that are open and honest.

Commenting on Friendship and Money:

"I find it interesting that women would not ask a friend how much they or their partner earns as much as men. Women are generally more chatty (well, I am) so it’s quite surprising. I see it evens out more with age, so perhaps women influence their husband’s behaviour as they settle down!"