Open Minds
Mandy Newman
Third Thursday of month, 2.30 to 4.30pm with a break for a cup of tea
Members' homes
A group formed of members who enjoy discussing a variety of subjects including current affairs and occasionally, more serious topics. Although our meetings are lighthearted we hope to give those who join a chance to be a little more serious and thoughtful. Members are encouraged to suggest and introduce their own choice of subject. We start the meeting with a brief introduction and a few thoughts on the discussion topic, and then throw the meeting open for general comment.
As ever, the subject matters range over a wide range of topic. Sometimes members each come with their own topic which we can discuss in turn. Meetings are relaxed and informal and we welcome anyone who just likes to think about things which might be outside of every day conversation. Recent subjects have included “Did my school make or break me”, “Dealing with challenges”, “Childhood memories of Christmas”, “Juneteenth”, “What can I do about Climate Change – will it make any difference”, and “Am I proud to be British?”. Occasionally we invite a guest to help set the scene for a discussion.
Meetings usually take place in members' homes (or gardens) and, although there isn’t a fixed limit on attendance, we are aware of the ongoing Covid situation and any meeting host is free to suggest a maximum number of attendees that they feel comfortable hosting.
If you would like to join us for a meeting or would like to introduce a subject for discussion about which you have particular experience (a long talk is not required!) please let me know. However please note that at the moment we have a "full house" with a short waiting list.
A short report is written covering the essential outcomes of our discussions. If you wish to see any of the reports please contact Mandy Newman.