Blog: Online communities: are you missing out?

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One of The Doncaster Stammering Association's online meetings during Covid

Our Communities & Campaigns Manager Vee argues the case for connecting online with others who stammer.

In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected through technology, the concept of community has expanded beyond geographical boundaries into the digital world. At the same time, post-pandemic a lot of us feel Zoomed-out, want to go 'out and about', and be free. Don't get me wrong, I get it. But I also think when people bluntly say "I don't do online" they could potentially be missing out. 

As the person who coordinates and works with all of STAMMA's communities, I regularly witness the positive impact of meeting others with shared experiences. By sharing stories, struggles, personal wins and feelings with others who stammer you can receive understanding, empathy and validation that you wouldn't get otherwise. With people who 'get it' because they've experienced what it's like to stammer; what it's like when you want to order a cappuccino in a coffee shop, but order a latte instead because it's easier to say.  
Feeling connected is important. But you can get that connection online, even if it's just through being part of a WhatsApp group that you can ping when you have something to share. 

Breaking Barriers

In our technologically-driven world, online communities have become powerful platforms for individuals. For those who stammer, the online world offers a safe space — far less scary for some than meeting outside where you have to talk. 

Especially when you're new to seeking support for stammering and connecting with others who stammer. You can turn off your camera, you don't need to show your face. You could even change your name until you feel comfortable to open up to those in the other boxes on your screen 😊.

Connections can be more creative

We've moved past 1990. Back then, with no online meetings people connected purely on the basis of living in the same geographical area. But how many people do you know who stammer and happen to live nearby?

Isn't there a book club nearby? Do you have to travel into the nearest city to discuss the latest novel? Now that almost all of your friends have married and settled down, do you miss hanging out with your mates to discuss the latest football results? Do you miss chats like, "Hey, how did Derby get on at the weekend?". "Yeah, really good result. They were struggling first half but came back really well against good opposition. Williams scored both goals, it was a good win in the end." 

See, you could be missing out if you don't do online. 

The Intersection of online & offline connections

Physical, face-to-face interactions can be more tangible and immediate. But who says you can't take online connections offline if you wish? People you meet in tiny boxes on a screen can become friends. If they live elsewhere in the UK you might want to plan a trip to meet them halfway, or if you're closer, casually meet up for a coffee or a walk. 

Building bridges

I strongly believe in both online and offline connections. My goal is to build bridges that span the digital and physical worlds alike. To create a diverse network of support, so that every person who stammers can find it in any way, shape or form they like. And if what you're looking for does not yet exist, why not explore whether there's appetite for your idea with others in the STAMMA community? If you have an idea for a community and want to discuss it, connect with us and email communities@stamma.org 

And if you're not yet a STAMMA member, do sign up today, it's free 😊.

Go to our Online Group Calendar to see which groups meet online and when. See the full list of in person and online Communities & Groups.