Social skills and connection

Everyday social skills, written with people living with psychosocial disability in mind, and open to everyone.

Theory and discussion only · Community education, not accredited training

This course is community education. It isn’t therapy or a clinical program, and it doesn’t replace advice or support from your health professionals or support team.

Key takeaways

01Connection looks different for everyone. You choose who, how and how fast.
02Your story is yours. You decide whether, when and how much to share.
03Small steps count. A short chat or a quick message can be the start of something.

In this course

01Connection, your way

Close connections: family and friends who care about you.
Everyday connections: people you see often, like a neighbour or café worker.
Group connections: people who share a club, faith, culture or cause with you.
Your strengths and interests are a good place to start.

02Starting, keeping and ending a conversation

Start: “Hi, I’m Sam. Is this your first time here?”
Keep going: “What did you like about it?”
Share a little: “I tried that recipe too.”
Finish: “I’d better head off. It was nice to chat.”
You can end a conversation whenever you need to.

03Understanding others and being understood

Check the meaning: “Do you mean…?”
Ask for what helps: “Could you say that again a bit slower?”
Take your time: “Let me think about that.”
Ask people what name they’d like you to use.

04Your story, your choice: sharing and privacy

Before you share, you might ask: who needs to know, and what would help?
At work, sharing can open a conversation about changes that help, like more flexible hours.
The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 covers psychosocial disability, including disability a person had in the past.
The Act applies across much of public life, such as work, study, housing, shops and services. There are some exceptions.

05Boundaries and tricky moments

Take a break: “I need a few minutes. Can we talk later?”
Disagree kindly: “I see it another way.”
Repair: “I didn’t mean it that way. Sorry.”
Say no: “I’d rather keep that private.”
Talk it over with someone you trust.

06Building and keeping connections

Start with something you already enjoy.
Look for groups run by trusted organisations, with trained leaders, clear group rules and respect for privacy.
Meet new people in a public place at first.
If one thing doesn’t suit you, try another.
A short message to someone you know is a real step too.

Talk it over

What does connection mean to you?
What are some easy ways to start or finish a chat with someone you see often?
What might someone weigh up before deciding whether to share personal information?
Where in your community could people meet others who share their interests?

Reflect

Think of a time you felt connected to someone. What helped?

What is one small step you could take towards a connection that matters to you?