Join our Weekly Meet Ups in Wadebridge
Connect with likeminded quieteers at Wadebridge Family Hub, every Thursday from 11am to 1pm.
This weekly group is designed to help you make meaningful connections with likeminded people in a calm and gentle way that feels authentic to your true quiet self.
Whether you’re chatting and sharing stories with your fellow quieteers, enjoying a craft or wellbeing activity, or simply relaxing with a good book in the company of others, this is a safe space where your quiet voice matters - and where you can feel part of a community that truly gets you.
We can’t wait to welcome you.
Your Wadebridge Meet Up leaders
We're here to greet you, guide the event and lead the optional activities, as well as answer any questions or concerns that you might have.
Click our photos below to see our stories.
Lynda Worth
Louise Ostrovsky
Stephen
Connector
Lynda Worth
I’m a quiet, thoughtful person who believes it’s okay not to be loud or outgoing. The world needs gentle, considerate people just as much as confident, outspoken ones. Growing up, I was often labelled “shy” and encouraged to join in more — something I later recognised happening with my own daughter. I refused to push her or tell her to “get on with it”, and it was at that point I really began to realise that it is okay to be quiet and not want to mix in with big crowds.
Like many people, I spent years masking and trying to perform to society’s expectations. It’s exhausting, and can feel deeply demoralising for quiet people who struggle socially. Through raising my three children, I’ve come to understand how important it is to let people be themselves, without pressure to perform or behave in prescribed ways. Quiet Connections reflects that belief — a space where you don’t have to explain yourself, where there are no expectations, and where it’s okay to simply be.
I’m one of the connectors at the Wadebridge Quiet Connections Meet Up. I’m here to welcome you and help you settle in. That might mean meeting you at the door, arriving early so you can look around before others arrive, offering a cup of tea or coffee, having a gentle chat, or giving you space to just sit and be — whatever feels right for you.
You might also spot my latest knitting project — everyone is welcome to bring something along to do if that helps them feel more comfortable. You’re free to sit quietly in a corner or join a small group at a table. There’s no right way to be here.
Connector
Louise Ostrovsky
Hi, I’m Louise,
I have always been known for being reserved or quiet in large group settings. I used to struggle to feel comfortable in environments where I had to step out of my comfort zone to be heard.
However, when I am with people I feel comfortable with, I become confident and more able to chat and offer my point of view within conversations. I’ve found that through working in the nursing and social care sector, I have developed skills in advocacy and as a result I am now confident in most face to face social interactions, as long as the group I am with, is small enough to feel seen and heard. I’m motivated to be a part of the Quiet Meet Ups, as I now love my ‘quietness’ and I am keen to assist others to feel accepted and thrive, in their quietness. I’d love to connect with you at the next Meet Up.
What to Expect
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A relaxed, welcoming environment
We’ve chosen Wadebridge Family Hub because it’s an calm and inviting space in an easily accessed part of Wadebridge. We always keep our group small too, to help you feel welcomed.
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It’s okay to talk and it’s okay to be quiet too
We understand that you may prefer to ease into conversation gradually, or that some days you might like to sit quietly with a good book whilst simply in the company of others. We welcome both quietude and chatter.
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You can go at your own pace
Our intention is to help you connect with others, but there’s absolutely no pressure to participate or set any big goals. You’re invited to do what feels right for you.
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Optional activities
Every session we bring along materials for casual, optional activities for you to participate in if you wish, from creative journaling to mindful colouring to crochet. You’re also welcome to bring your own creative project or a book to read.
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Conversation starters on the tables
We know that getting to know new people can be challenging, so we’ve done the tricky part for you and provided some interesting, positive questions that you can ask your fellow quieteers.
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Tea, coffee, hot chocolate and biscuits…
Because you can’t have a meeting without them, right?
What Quieteers are Saying
“I am grateful for quiet connections because they give me a chance to be me, without judgement or criticism, harsh words or being made fun of. I am able to be part of a group socially, in comfort and feeling safe, for the first time in a long time with them. I have a sense of belonging and being cared about. It's just lovely.”
Rose
“I'm enjoying finding people who I can relate to that gives me a feeling that I'm not alone. So thank you for that and all the tips and support and awareness. It's an amazing community and you make my life a little brighter.”
Quieteer
Where to Find Us
Wadebridge Family Hub
Camel House, Goldsworthy Way, Wadebridge PL27 7AL
Google Maps | What3Words: ///surpassed.openings.aliens
Getting here
- By car: The hub can be reached by using the Google Maps & What3Words links above, and there is parking nearby.
- By bus: The nearest bus station is Wadebridge Lidl (3 min walk).
If you would like any more detailed information about getting to our Wadebridge Meet Ups we’d be very happy to send this to you in an email. Just contact us at wadebridge@quietconnections.co.uk.
How to Join a Wadebridge Meet Up
You don’t have to register to come along - it’s okay to simply turn up on the day. However, on the first time that you’re joining us, if you know in advance that you’re going to come along it would be really helpful if you could sign up using our booking form below. This means we can say hello and answer any of your questions before you come along, we can easily contact you if there are any changes to the schedule, and we can get feedback from you now and again to help us improve. It’s your choice though. Either way, we are very much looking forward to meeting you and welcoming you into the group.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Wadebridge Family Hub be open to the general public during the Meet Up, or is it just quieteers?
There may be other groups in the building, however we will have a private room to ourselves between 11am and 1pm, so it's only us quieteers there.
Who is leading the Meet Up?
The Wadebridge Meet Ups are led by the team pictured above, who will be there to greet you.
Is there any cost involved?
No, all of our Meet Ups are free to attend. We’re a Community Interest Company so funding comes from The National Lottery Community Fund. All refreshments including water, teas, coffees, hot chocolate and biscuits are provided free of charge too - although you’re very welcome to bring along your own drink if you prefer, or additional treats to share with the group.
Do I need to book a Meet Up space in advance?
You don’t have to book - it’s ok to just turn up on the day. However, on the first time that you’re joining us, if you know in advance that you’re going to come along it would be really helpful if you could sign up using our booking form below. This means we can say hi and answer any of your questions before you come along, we can easily contact you if there are any changes to the schedule, and we can get feedback from you now and again to help us improve.
What is the feel of the group and space like?
Wadebridge Family Hub is a quiet and welcoming space, where we aim to create an ambience that feels both calm and re-energising. We’ll often have uplifting or relaxing music playing quietly in the background. Our facilitators focus on nurturing conversations and participation that has a collective positive upwards spiral e.g. gratitude, small comfort zone stretch wins, things that bring us joy, what we’re learning etc. And there is usually a gentle mix of chatter and quieter moments.
Are there any stairs to get to the Meet Up room?
There is level access at Wadebridge Family Hub.
Is there *really* no expectation or pressure to join in and participate? Can I *really* go at my own pace?
We really do remove the pressure - because we’ve been there too. As quiet facilitators, we like to think that we’ve found a good balance between being attentive to the group and giving you your own space. If we sense you’re in any difficulty, we will gently make sure that you’re okay. But otherwise we will allow you to join in as much or as little as you like.
Am I able to step out of the room for a quiet moment to myself if I need it?
Yes. We’ll always encourage you to give yourself what you need. If at any point you feel you need to step away, you are welcome to go and make yourself a cuppa or leave for a break before rejoining the group. Our facilitators will be mindful to offer that space and a check-in chat, if needed.
What kinds of activities do you run at this Meet Up?
All sorts! We bring along materials for optional casual activities that’ll spark creativity, start conversations and boost your wellbeing. This might be colouring, painting, crocheting, journaling and more.
Can I bring a friend?
Absolutely. We recognise this might be helpful as you’re settling in and getting to know the other group members.
Can you greet me outside before I come in?
Yes, we’d be happy to help with that. Just send us a message at wadebridge@quietconnections.co.uk and we’ll arrange this for you.
Can I try other locations or should I always go to the Wadebridge Meet Up?
You’re welcome to try Meet Ups in multiple locations. There’s no obligation to always go to the same one, but you’re more likely to make friends and genuine connections if you go to the same Meet Up more than once.
Is it mandatory to come along every week?
Whilst many do choose to attend weekly, we also have valuable members within the community who only attend as and when they can.
How long is this Meet Up?
It’s two hours in length (every Thursday from 11am-1pm).
Where should I park?
We’ve included parking instructions above but feel free to email us on wadebridge@quietconnections.co.uk if you’d like some more detailed information on this.
How will I get there if I don’t drive?
We’ve included travel and public transport information above but please email us on wadebridge@quietconnections.co.uk if you’d like some more detailed information about how to get here.
I’m interested in volunteering as a group leader. How can I get involved?
We’re always pleased to hear from lovely volunteers in our local community. If you think you might like to help us run a Meet Up or get involved with Quiet Connections in another way, please visit quietconnections.co.uk/quiet-connectors.
