Tees Valley Buddies

After time away…

It’s very common for people to attend groups for a while and then take a break.

Sometimes returning after time away can feel harder than the first visit, even if the group was previously comfortable.

Different things can make returning easier, such as familiar faces, knowing the environment, or just being reassured that it’s okay to come back after a break.

If you have previously joined us and have had some time away, just know you will always be welcome, with no judgement and we won’t force you to tell us your reasons, we will simply be glad to see you again.

What helps you return to a group or activity after time away?

Drop your tips and thoughts below 👇👇

Things That Are Allowed at Our Groups (That Might Surprise You) 🙈🙈

At TVB we work a little differently than most neurotypical groups, and below are some things that are not only allowed, but fully encouraged!!

💚Being quiet the whole time
You don’t have to talk. You can just sit, listen, and be around others.

💜Only staying for 10 minutes (or however long you fancy)
If that’s all you can manage, that’s more than enough. You can leave whenever you need to.

💚Changing your mind last minute
We get that some days are harder than others or unexpected things pop up.

💜Talking about random things
This one is almost a must!!
Chat about TV, games, your pet, anything.

💚Stimming
Fidgeting, rocking, tapping, using fidget toys, all of it is completely okay here.

💜Taking breaks during the session
Need some air or a few minutes to yourself? No problem at all.

💚Asking questions
No such thing as a stupid question here.
About the group, how things work, or what to expect, you’re always welcome to ask.

💜Bringing comfort items
Headphones, fidget toys, drinks, snacks, anything that helps you feel at ease.

💚Sitting quietly on your phone for a bit
Sometimes just being there is the first step.

If you’ve been thinking about coming along, and these things feel like they fit you, maybe this is your sign 💚💜

We want to gently remind everyone that Tees Valley Buddies is a peer support community, not a crisis service.

Our groups are designed to offer connection, understanding, and low-pressure social spaces with people who get it. While we care deeply about our community, our volunteers are not trained to provide urgent or clinical support, and we are not able to respond to crisis situations.

If you need immediate help or are in crisis, please reach out to the appropriate services:

• NHS 111 (select the mental health option)
• Your GP
• Local crisis team
• Samaritans (116 123, free and available 24/7)
• If you are in immediate danger, please call 999 or go to A&E

You deserve the right support at the right time. Reaching out to these services can feel hard, but they are there to help keep you safe.

We are here to walk alongside you in the in-between moments, not to replace the support you may need in a crisis 🤍🤍