A new weekly Meet Up is coming to Wadebridge

Photo credit: Ron Strutt / The Old Bridge, Wadebridge

We’re really glad to be sharing this news with you. From Thursday 29 January, Quiet Connections will be hosting a new weekly Meet Up in Wadebridge. The Meet Up will take place every Thursday from 11am to 1pm at the Wadebridge Family Hub. 

This space has been created with quieter people in mind. Those of us who are introverted, shy, sensitive, or who experience social anxiety often tell us that many social spaces feel loud, fast, or shaped around confidence and performance. Over time, this can leave you feeling on the outside, even when what you’re really longing for is connection.

Our Wadebridge Meet Up offers an alternative. A place where you can arrive as you are, without having to explain yourself or push against your natural way of being. A space where conversation can unfold naturally, and where quiet is welcome too.

Why this Meet Up matters

We believe that quietness is not something to overcome. It’s a way of being that brings depth, care, attentiveness, and thought into the world. Yet many everyday environments don’t leave much room for this. Conversations can feel rushed. Silence can feel uncomfortable. There can be an unspoken expectation to speak up quickly or perform ease.

Many people in our community share how tiring that can become. Some begin to withdraw. Others start to doubt their worth or feel that connection simply isn’t for them.

Our Meet Ups exist to offer something different.

They are not about fixing people or encouraging anyone to become more confident or outgoing, in fact we celebrate quieter ways of being here. These Meet Ups are about creating spaces where quieter people can experience connection in ways that feel authentic. Sometimes that looks like conversation. Sometimes it looks like sitting alongside others creating in shared quiet. Both are valued here.

What the Wadebridge Meet Up will be like

The Wadebridge Meet Up follows the same values that shape all Quiet Connections gatherings across Cornwall and online.

There is no pressure to take part in a particular way. You’re welcome to sit quietly, observe, or ease into conversation when and if it feels right. You don’t need to arrive with energy or confidence. You don’t need to stay for the full two hours. You’re welcome to come and go in a way that works for you.

Some people find it easier to relax when their hands are busy. So each week, optional activities will be available, such as word searches or mindful colouring. Some people bring a book or their own creative project. You’re also welcome to simply sit with a warm drink and enjoy being in the company of others.

For those who would like to chat but aren’t sure how to begin, friendly conversation prompts are placed on the tables. They’re there as a support, not a requirement. Many people find it reassuring to know there’s something to lean on if they fancy a chat but words don’t come easily.

Tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and biscuits are provided, free of charge. There’s no need to book or register in advance. You’re welcome to drop in on the day. If you’d like a friendly introduction beforehand or have questions, you’re welcome to sign up via our website.

A calm and welcoming venue

The Meet Up will be held at the Wadebridge Family Hub, located on Goldsworthy Way. We chose this space for its calm, welcoming feel and the sense of ease it offers. We’ve got a little kitchen we can all use attached to this space, too and you’re welcome to make a drink at any time.

When a space feels settled and unhurried, it can become easier to relax, notice others, and feel more at home. The venue supports the slower pace that many quieter people value.

Led by people who understand

The Wadebridge Meet Up is led by Quiet Connectors Lynda and Louise, who both bring lived experience of being quieter people in a world that often favours confidence and being heard.

Lynda shares:

“I’m a quiet, thoughtful person who believes it’s okay not to be loud or outgoing. The world needs quieter, considerate people just as much as confident, outspoken ones. Growing up, I was often labelled ‘shy’ and encouraged to join in more, and I later recognised the same thing happening with my own daughter. I refused to push her or tell her to ‘get on with it’, and that was when I really began to understand that it’s okay to be quiet and not want to mix in large crowds.

Like many people, I spent years masking and trying to meet society’s expectations. That can be exhausting and demoralising for quiet people who find social situations hard. Through raising my three children, I’ve come to see how important it is to let people be themselves, without pressure to perform. At the Wadebridge Meet Up, I’m here to welcome you and help you settle in, whether that’s offering a cup of tea, having a quiet chat, or giving you space to simply be. There’s no right way to be here.”

Louise reflects:

“I’ve always been known for being reserved or quiet in larger group settings, and I used to struggle to feel comfortable in environments where I had to step out of my comfort zone to be heard. When I’m with people I feel comfortable with, I become more confident and able to chat and share my point of view.

Through working in nursing and social care, I’ve developed skills in advocacy and now feel confident in most face-to-face social interactions, as long as the group is small enough to feel seen and heard. I’m motivated to be part of the Quiet Meet Ups because I now love my quietness, and I’m keen to support others to feel accepted and able to thrive in theirs too. I’d love to connect with you at the Wadebridge Meet Up.”

Together, Lynda and Louise help create a space where quieter people are welcomed, understood, and supported to take part in ways that feel right for them.

Who the Meet Up is for

This Meet Up is open to anyone who identifies as quiet, introverted, shy, or highly sensitive. There’s no expectation around labels or diagnoses. If the description resonates with you, you’re welcome to come along.

Some people attend because they’re feeling lonely. Others are curious about connecting in a quieter way. Some come every week, and others drop in from time to time. All of that is welcome.

The Meet Ups are free to attend, with optional donations if you’d like to support the continuation of these spaces.

Part of a growing network of connection

The Wadebridge Meet Up is part of Quiet Connections’ wider work across Cornwall and online. We currently host weekly Meet Ups from Penzance to Liskeard as well as online gatherings. Each space is shaped by the same values of care and inclusion, while also reflecting the people who attend. You can see all our Meet Ups here.

We’re encouraged by the way these spaces are growing, slowly and organically, as more quiet people find their way to us. This expansion has been made possible in part through support from The National Lottery Community Fund, helping us continue creating spaces where quiet individuals can flourish on their own terms.

Volunteering with Quiet Connections

As our community grows, we’re always glad to hear from people who may be interested in volunteering as Quiet Connectors. Volunteering with Quiet Connections isn’t about being loud or leading from the front. It’s about presence and care from within the community – we’re all quieteers here.

Quiet Connectors gently help welcome newcomers, support the flow of Meet Ups, and contribute to a sense of belonging. If you’re based in or near Wadebridge and feel drawn to being part of this, you’re welcome to get in touch or visit our website to learn more.

Practical details

What: Weekly Quiet Connections Meet Ups
When: Every Thursday, 11am to 1pm
Where: Wadebridge Family Hub, Camel House, Goldsworthy Way, Wadebridge, PL27 7AL
Who: Anyone who identifies as quiet, introverted, shy, or highly sensitive
Cost: Free to attend, with optional donations

You can find more information at quietconnections.co.uk/wadebridge.

If you’ve been wishing for a calmer way to connect, or you’d like to support your local Quiet Meet Up, we’d love to welcome you in Wadebridge. You don’t have to be anything other than yourself.