Hiya, Rash. I am not sure which part of the UK you live in, I simply thought that you might be interested in the following:
Bunkasai Club – Every Wednesday ( Japanese and English language cultural and Charity Club ) link below
The London Japanese and English friendship club (London, England) - Meetup
It's full of kind and wonderful people (most Japanese are) who would love to help, I used to attended to brush up on my Japanese, just by talking to people who understand both Japanese and English has helped me greatly.
I am very grateful to my teacher Akemi Solloway Tanaka for teaching me proper Japanese, she manages the club, she also started the Aid for Japan charity, to help Japanese children who were made orphans after the March 11 Tsunami, such a kind hearted person, very understanding, the first thing she said was;
"You are probably aware that in the Japanese language, you address people differently, based on age or rank, for instance, you would address your employer (boss) using the respectful alternate words. 'She said', don't worry about that as it will come naturally, we would not take offence if you used the wrong wording so focus on learning."
It's located in Piccadilly Circus London, it's on the 5th floor of the waterstone building.
It's not that far from Westminster college or Trafalgar square, I would always walk to the Bunkasai club after college had finished, I would also have my lunch at Trafalgar square. I love Zone1 and London.
I hope I was able to help.
Mio