Some members find branch meetings online too difficult to attend. It triggers unhappy memories and in some cases flashbacks of abuse and violence; for them, a face-to-face meeting is easier as you are more able to interpret non-verbal cues, build new supporting relationships, engage in purposeful small talk and address sensitive issues without misunderstandings. Others find online, the most convenient format, easier to attend and both direct and informative. The Cambridge branch of FNF provide both options every month.
East London Branch have run only online meetings since COVID. Despite this they have regular legal advice from solicitors and McKenzies to help with support. Run by Ian Findlay it is also East London that host the regular and popular 8 week course Surviving Separation – Putting the Children First . Ian tells us “Londoners are spoilt for choice for branches to attend both online and face to face. Because we were one of the first to offer online meetings during the lockdown, we now help many members across the country who may not have a local branch.”
Exeter and Cornwall branch have been online for three years now and regularly get upwards of 15 attendees.
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