Sheffield Women-Only Social Club Helps Members Try New Activities

In Sheffield, England, a group of 30 women recently gathered at Ponds Forge sports centre to jump off diving boards — many for the very first time. The event was organised by Soul & Social Club, a community group for women that runs activities and meet-ups to help fight loneliness. The club was founded by Fiona Kwan, a 22-year-old medical student at the University of Sheffield, who wanted to help women connect with others and try things they might never do alone.

Soul & Social Club offers a wide range of activities for its members. Women can try golf, pilates, pottery, tennis, glass painting, gymnastics, and even ballet. The goal is to give women a fun and comfortable place to explore new hobbies without feeling nervous or out of place.

The diving session was described as a 'judgement-free zone,' where coaches were on hand to give guidance. Each session costs just £10, and more than 100 women have taken part in the monthly events so far. Participants of all skill levels are welcome, so no experience is needed to join in.

Kwan says she started the club after noticing that she could go many days without having any real conversations with people. She realised that many other women faced the same problem, including those who work from home and postgraduate students. After returning from her clinical placements at university, she felt isolated herself and decided to do something about it.

The idea for the diving sessions came after Kwan tried the sport in a mixed class and felt that some women might feel uncomfortable or intimidated in that setting. By creating a women-only space, she hoped more people would feel safe enough to give it a go. 'It's girls cheering each other on, meeting their fears at new heights and satisfying the little adrenaline junkie inside,' she said.

Club member Lucy Alexander, 26, who works as an engineer, said the group setting makes a big difference. 'Sometimes it can be a bit daunting to try things by yourself,' she explained. 'When there's a big, welcoming group of like-minded people it certainly encourages you to try things and get over that first hurdle.'

Member Tammy Wong, 48, heard about the club through social media and decided to give it a try. She said the sessions give women a chance to learn new skills in an inclusive environment where everyone is in the same boat. 'There's a sense of camaraderie — learning to dive we can all be scared together, cheer each other on and encourage each other, and progress together, so you don't feel alone,' she said.