Living with illness, a chronic condition, a physical or intellectual disability or a mental health condition, or being a Carer, can often mean you are left isolated and unable to get out and about.  In my experience if people feel safe, included, and are interested in seeing and mixing with the people who come along, they usually try to make the effort to attend. I know that even on the days when you may not feel like going out, if you do make the effort you often feel quite refreshed and happy you did afterwards.

Being included, welcomed, and feeling safe in the space you meet up in is also very important. The act of fellowship over a shared meal often leads to meaningful discussions, shared stories, building of relationships, and forming real connections that last, and add to the quality of our lives. Spending time with others who really understand your story and accept you is usually the most important thing to us.