One Small Step
‘I want to be with people without the pressure to talk.’
A safe, no-pressure space for people with social anxiety. Held at the Waterside Centre in Newbury. Book ahead or just drop in.
Your choice.
Take a look at a One Small Step Session
- Waterside Centre, Newbury
See inside One Small Step, Newbury's supportive social anxiety group for ages 16+. Watch how our three-zone approach lets you participate at your comfort level - no pressure to talk. Led by qualified counsellor John Dyson in a welcoming space at the Waterside Centre in Newbury.
Three Comfortable Zones, One Welcoming Space
You're in complete control. Our One Small Step sessions are designed for people aged 16+ who struggle with social anxiety.
You can choose how much social interaction feels right for you - from quiet time alone through to participating in group activities. Move between zones as you feel comfortable or stay in one area for the entire session.
Quiet Zone
Simply be with others with no pressure to interact. Listen to music, read, do colouring, or play patience. You’re not expected to talk to anyone. If you want to spend the whole session here, that’s perfectly fine.
Phones aren't banned, but we gently encourage being technology-free and present when it feels safe to do so. If and when you feel ready, you can move to the chat area - this lets others know you're open to gentle conversation, but there's never any obligation. You can return to the quiet zone anytime you need to, as many times as you like.
2. Chat Zone
When you feel ready, you can move to the chat area to signal you're open to gentle conversation. Others might ask questions or start a casual chat, but there's never any pressure to participate or keep talking.
Feel free to return to the quiet zone whenever you need space.
3. Activity Zone
Join others for games, crafts, and facilitated discussions about mental health topics. You are completely in control of your participation - engage as much or as little as feels right for you.
Take breaks whenever you need them, join activities that interest you, and step back when you want space.
This is your time to explore social connection at your own comfort level.
Not sure. That’s okay?
Feeling nervous about coming? That's completely normal. Here's what you should know:
Bring someone with you - A parent, friend, or sibling can come along if that makes it easier
Stay as long as feels right - Even 10 minutes counts. That's exposure therapy, and it has real benefit
Feeling uncomfortable is okay - This is part of the process. Small steps still count
You're in control - Choose your zone, stay or leave, participate or observe. It's entirely up to you
About One Small Step
Our sessions are designed to provide vital human contact and support for those experiencing social anxiety. While we encourage being technology-free to help you stay present, we understand everyone's needs are different.
What’s Included?
- Tea, coffee, water, and snacks
- A completely judgement-free space
- Information about coping strategies (if you want it)
- Signposting to other local support groups (if helpful)
- Gentle encouragement to be present (but phones aren't banned if you need them)
Led by Experienced Professionals
Sessions are led by John Dyson, a BACP-registered counsellor with extensive experience supporting young people with social anxiety, along with volunteers who understand social anxiety from personal experience.
Please note: These sessions are not group counselling or therapy. They're designed as a supportive social space where you can practice connection at your own pace, with some mental health information and discussion if you're interested.
What to Expect When you Arrive
When you arrive, we'll ask you to sign in.
This helps us know who's here and keeps everyone safe.
The only rules:
Be kind to yourself and others
Respect that everyone's doing this at their own pace
Remember: you're always in control
That's it. Everything else is up to you.
Helping us Improve
We want One Small Step to genuinely help people. After you've attended, we might ask for your feedback - but it's completely voluntary.
Your suggestions help us make these sessions better for everyone.
If you're concerned about a young person with social anxiety, you can learn more in my guide to social anxiety in teenagers.
Ready to Give It a Go?
Next Sessions:
27th November 2025, 7pm - 8.30pm
4th December 2025, 7pm - 8.30pm
The Waterside Centre, Waldegrave Place, Newbury RG14 1DS
No booking needed - just turn up on the day. Or if you'd like to let us know you're coming, you can reserve your spot below: