Getting Together Again

Recently, some brighter days inspired the group to meet outdoors at the Tea Hive in Chorlton. It was a real treat and we had a very lovely get together – the first in-person one since lockdown!  Many members had not met each other in person before and we laughed in surprise about the fact we had bodies below the shoulders and heads we had got so used to seeing on screen. 

We shared tea, coffee and some lovely cake whilst getting to know each other in 3D again.  We also spent some time reflecting on our experience of the group and ideas of what to do next.  Watch the video below to see the uplifting feedback.  Alternatively, read the quotes separately below if that works better for you.

“I enjoy the opportunity to speak and connect with others.”

“As we get older, it can often get treated as important or having worth but this group helps us participants feel valued and purposeful.”

“Listening to people as we do, shows that ordinary people have fascinating lives, even when they might think they don’t!  This also then reminds me to value myself too; realise that I have had an interesting life also.”

“The group is warm, inclusive, friendly, encouraging and HAPPY!”

“You can get as much or as little out of the group as you like.  You can use it as an opportunity to simply tell and hear stories or you can write something up inspired by the storytelling.”

“We are in unprecedented times.  The best way to break the cycle of uncertainty and worry is by connecting, creating community and sharing with others is good for everyone involved.”

“The group is a chance to meet people I wouldn’t have otherwise.  It is a diverse group, very intergenerational and we have great, often surprising, conversations. “

“I like having an incentive to write on a regular basis and I also enjoy the sharing of memories on a topic, how they are sometimes similar and sometimes so very different.”

“This is good place to improve writing and storytelling skills and also a good place to talk and manage mental health conditions like anxiety.”

“You could just come and listen first or read the story book to get a feel for the group.  Or jump straight in a share some memories with us all during a session!”

“We have more in common than we realise!”