Edited 17/02/2021
Successful first meeting!
Gussage
May 1, 2015 13:46
Hello, Well we have had our first meeting of the new Dorset group and it went really well, we had 23 people come along which was really encouraging, all of them seemed really keen, we had lots of people thank us for getting the group set up which was nice. So...what next? I think we have a date for our next meeting but are not sure what to do and would welcome any thoughts! We had a fairly even 3 way split in the group - prospectives at various stages, fairly recent adopters with little ones and then those with more years under their belts and older children/early teens. It was a little hard to maintain the balance with those with more experience sharing their horror stories and everyone else getting worried what they were letting themselves in for, but, as one lady pointed out, if everything is fine & dandy, you don't go to a support group! Sadly we're not able to make the volunteer day in June which I understand would have been a good networking opportunity but I'm hoping to able to pick up some tips though this forum! Cheers Cathy
LINDYLOO
May 13, 2015 23:36
Hi Cathy, congratulations on having had your first meeting! In our groups. We find we attract the prospective adoptors and the adoptors with little ones, but fewer adoptors that have older children turn up to our meetings. In response to someone saying they wanted something for teens, we ran a meeting with a youth worker and hardly anyone turned up! Sometimes the timing is wrong and people can't make the meetings. We tend to find that people dip in and out. Since having our email address, it's been a lot easier to keep in touch as people will contact us to ask about meetings, or why they couldn't make it. I'd ask your members what they want from the group - formal meetings with speakers, what sort of topics, socials - with or without children? And for those that actually respond, ask them where they are in the process, if they haven't already told you. Then keep that email link going - we've found that where we actively engage by email, they are more inclined to attend the meetings.
Edited 17/02/2021
Gussage
May 15, 2015 10:01
Thanks Lindyloo, we do intend to email round, it's just finding the time but we'll get there....
Edited 17/02/2021
evian
May 16, 2015 19:19
In Wales several of our groups alternative their meetings between adult only groups and family get-togethers at a local park or play centre, for example. Arranging a walk round a local park with lots to see/do during the walk worked well and attracted adopters/prospective adopters at all stages. It also helps to have a cafe on site (as long as they can fit you all in and you don't mind conversations being overheard!)
Edited 17/02/2021
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