Our groups
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Thursday project
Our Thursday Project, which has existed for over 16 years, is one of our social isolation support groups open to anyone who is 18+ and experiencing isolation – be that as a result of old age, mental health issues, recovering from alcohol or substance abuse, being a lone parent, being a minority or living with a disability. WATCH believes in the power of intentional peer support.
We aim to provide our members with a safe, friendly, relaxed space in which to meet others with shared experiences, develop supportive peer friendships and build confidence in an environment in which everyone feels equal, accepted and understood. We believe that every challenge is easier to face if you do it with friends!
The Project is open every Thursday at and runs from 10am – 3pm. Please check the timings beforehand and these timings can be variable.Â
During these sessions, members can expect to take part in informal discussion groups (details below), as well as a number of activities, ranging from arts and crafts to playing musical instruments, cooking to laughter yoga, and everything in between! We also regularly have guest speakers who come to the project to give talks. These have included visits from the Fire Service, Ambulance Service, budgeting experts, IT specialists, environmentalists, wellbeing coaches and Abri housing association. There is no pressure to take part. Participation in everything we offer is entirely optional.Â
Our weekly, facilitated group discussions:
Quiet corner conversations
A weekly group meeting focused around a theme related to mental health and wellbeing. Attendees respectfully share their thoughts and lively discussions often ensue! The group is lightly facilitated by a staff member who will present a few ideas to kick things off, but the conversation goes where it will.
Themes can be suggested for future sessions.
Be prepared for stimulating and thought-provoking conversation!
Tea and talk
A weekly drop in session, welcome to all members who would like to share their news and stories and listen to those of others. This is a very warm and safe space to do so, demonstrating ‘Peer Support’ at its finest. There is never any pressure to share – just being there, for some people, is enough.
The Thursday Project is member-led and we encourage everyone to take part in a monthly meeting during which they are able to have their say and help make decisions. You can become a member through referral from your GP, support worker or an external organization, or you can self-refer.