A new Women’s Midlife Collective, focusing on issues affecting women during the perimenopause and menopause, is the latest project to be launched at That Little Norfolk Studio in Wymondham. Here, specialist Dr Emma Ping explains more
From bingo and quiz nights, open mic sessions, and sea shanty nights aimed at all ages, to cookery sessions, children’s art events, poetry, men’s guitar sessions, and reading groups, volunteer-run That Little Norfolk Shop & Studio hosts activities and group seven days a week. Now, ClearCompany CIC, the social enterprise behind That Little Norfolk Shop & Studio, is inviting women to participate in a survey that will shape a fortnightly drop in space for women to meet, socialise, share experiences, and access expert information about the perimenopause and menopause.
The Women’s Midlife Collective will meet on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from December and the organisation is teaming up with Dr Emma Ping, who specialises in the perimenopause and menopause, to deliver a safe and informative space to share and access reliable information.
Julie Briggs, Director of ClearCompany CIC, said: “Since opening, we have been guided by people in our community. The most regular users of our venue have been men drawn to the musical elements of what we offer. While we are working to formalise focused time for men to meet, our attention has now been drawn to women sharing their issues with us about how the perimenopause is impacting their health, confidence and quality of life.
“We consulted a core group of women to create a survey reflecting the range of issues arising. We are inviting women to participate in the survey, with a choice to remain anonymous or share their details to receive further information. We are absolutely thrilled to have Dr Emma Ping on board and recognise how lucky we are to have her expert guidance and support.”
Issues ranging from confusion around HRT options, relationships being negatively impacted, and fears that symptoms may be wrongly attributed to the perimenopause were amongst the main issues initially shared by women with That Little Norfolk Studio. The survey will gather the range of issues affecting women and continue to collect feedback as the group develops, which will inform the direction of the twice monthly sessions.
Dr Emma Ping, who is accredited by the British Menopause Society, said: “I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and increasing awareness of the perimenopause and menopause. I believe this collective can create an inclusive, understanding and nurturing environment where women can gain support and grow in confidence.”
The Women’s Midlife Collective sessions will begin on Tuesday December 16 from 7pm to 9pm. The group will be shown clips from popular TV shows, podcasts and social media that represent a range of related issues. Women will have the opportunity to listen to a live conversation between Dr Ping and ClearCompany Director, Julie Briggs about how they have been affected by the perimenopause and participate if they wish.
Based in the former Abbey Schoolrooms in Wymondham, That Little Norfolk Studio runs on average 35 events and groups each month. Sales of Norfolk produce and crafts from That Little Norfolk Shop on the lower floor help to raise funds to cover the running costs of the venue.
Regular events include the weekly Friday Youth Café, Dungeons and Dragons sessions, Shanty Nights, Bingo, Quiz Nights, The Sound Café, Ukulele groups, Ante Natal classes, and Whatever Wednesdays where the venue is open to all to play games, instruments, do crafts, or socialise.
The Women’s Midlife Collective sessions will begin on Tuesday December 16 from 7pm to 9pm at That Little Norfolk Shop & Studio in Wymondham, Norfolk. The organisation is actively seeking volunteers to help run the shop and studio, serve the public and set up for events and groups. For further information about events, private hire, groups, or volunteering, email info@clearcompany.org.uk.
Featured image of Dr Emma Ping supplied by Clear Company CIC
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