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What to expect at our meetings
Whether you're feeling anxious, or just want to know a bit more, here's what you can expect at our meetings. We do our best to make sure Shed meetings and events are relaxed, friendly and open to everyone.
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You can participate as much or as little as you like at any of our meetings. You can leave whenever you want to. You're welcome no matter how you identify, what you look like, or what challenges you may be facing.
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What you can expect from our regular meetings
When the meeting opens
We are currently meeting both online and in-person, depending on the event.
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We use Zoom for our online meetings. You can set your own display name - it doesn't have to be your legal name. Many people try out a name for the first time at one of our meetings! You can also choose to put your pronouns in your display name. You can use any pronouns you want. We won't judge you on your appearance or tell you you can't use your chosen name or pronouns. ​
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We spend a few minutes having an informal chat. It's ok to just say hello - we are a friendly bunch and everyone is welcome!
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How the meeting runs
We usually have around 10 people at our meetings. When we start the meeting, we usually do a round of introduction with our name and pronouns. You don't have to take part
if you don't feel comfortable - just say "pass" or something like that and we will carry on.
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We will do an acknowledgement of country and an overview of the code of conduct and then introduce the theme of the meeting. Speakers from the group will talk about the theme -
usually in an informal way. Anyone can ask questions or speak from their experience.
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You can leave the meeting at any point. No one will be angry, annoyed or judge you
if you want to leave early. You don't need to explain that you need to leave.
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Taking part in meetings
During our meetings, you can participate as much or as little as you'd like.
Our meetings are very laid back, and you don't have to take part in anything that doesn't feel right for you.
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Support to come for the first time
We can help support you if you would like to come along for the first time and you're feeling anxious. If you know what kind of help you need, please let us know. We can do things like messaging with you online to help you make a connection before the meeting. ​
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Feedback
If you have any more ideas or suggestions of ways we can better support people with anxiety, or other accessibility needs, please contact us.