Connect Newham Get Together

Connect Newham Get Together:

We held our very first Connect Newham Get Together on 10th March, providing those who have received support from the borough’s telephone befriending service with an opportunity to meet in-person.

The aim of the event was to create a safe space for service users to meet face-to-face and put the skills (confidence, listening, speaking another language etc.) they’ve acquired through Connect Newham to use.

It was important to the facilitators that attendees felt comfortable and settled throughout the duration of the event and it began with a short introduction to everyone, setting goals for the sessions, which will be held on a monthly basis, and going through the ground rules:

• respecting each other
• listening to each other and being patient
• keep phones on silent
• safeguarding and confidentiality
• good time keeping
• everyone to participate (if they feel comfortable) and get involved
• enjoy their time at the Get Together

Once the ground rules had been discussed, it was then time for the ice breaker activities to help attendees get to know one another better. The group then moved onto activities discussing their current emotions.

After the activities, refreshments were put out and attendees were given the opportunity to discuss the activities they had completed during the day. Feedback and consent forms were completed and attendees were asked whether they’d attend the next session (a resounding yes!).

Overall, the first session was a great way to assess the needs of attendees and how future sessions can be moulded to suit their needs and requirements.