New to 2023! After discovering my AuDHD, I researched what was out there for my local town in Southend-on-Sea in the way of support groups. I felt a bit dis-heartened that my initial search yielded very little. Not to be discouraged further, I decided to set up my own group! With the aim of creating a safe space where anyone under the neurodivergent umbrella can be authentically themselves. No masking, no trying to fit in with societal norms or the draining nature of remembering all the social cues. A place where we can chat the deep stuff, find comfort in relating with our struggles and stim away happily.
I currently hold two support groups for neurodivergent folk that are recurring events each month, the location being in Southchurch, Southend-on-Sea. The best place to keep informed of upcoming events is my meetup group, which you can join here. Alternatively, you can follow me on Facebook and Insta.
The coffee morning is held at Arty Crafts Studio Essex on the last Saturday of the month. Starting at 10am - 11:30am. Hot drinks and stimming toys to use during the morning are included with a £5 fee. This one has a small, limited capacity so it is essential to either book on meetup or message me to secure your spot.
The craft and chat group is held at The Exchange Pub on the third Monday evening of the month. From 7pm - 9pm. My craft stash will be available for you to use or you're welcome to bring your own project. A £3 fee applies and drinks can be purchased from the bar.
Feedback for the Coffee Morning
'I was really anxious to go to the first meeting, but put some support in place to make sure I went. And I'm so pleased I did! It's such a welcoming space, you can contribute to the conversations as much or as little as you want. The first meeting was only scheduled for an hour. But it went by so quickly, it's now been changed to make it an hour and half. I highly recommend this group.' - Grace, a member on the Meetup group.