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, where tailored groups and creative events are on offer for everyone at every life stage.

ClearCompany CIC, the social enterprise behind That Little Norfolk Shop and 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:

“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 16th December at 7-9pm. 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 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.