On Monday, we were delighted to attend Munch & Mingle, a monthly gathering that we’re proud to be supporting over six months through winter and into spring. Funded to help strengthen local connections, the event is organised and run by the Queens East Residents Panel, a group formed through Wiltshire Council’s Community Conversations programme. It’s a great example of local people stepping forward to create opportunities for neighbours to come together.
The format is nice and simple. Visit for homemade soup (delicious chicken noodle or tomato on our visit), fresh bread, and plenty of time for relaxed conversation. There’s no agenda beyond bringing people together and that’s exactly why it works. The room feels warm and welcoming, with chatter, laughter and introductions happening naturally over steaming bowls of soup.
Our Communications Manager Katie attended this month’s session and enjoyed meeting a wonderful mix of local residents. Among them was Frances, Chair of Chippenham Shed, who shared how the Shed provides a creative and social space for adults to meet, chat, learn new skills and enjoy each other’s company. It’s another brilliant example of grassroots community spirit in action.
Katie also spoke with Damion, a Wiltshire Council Health Coach. If you’re not familiar with the Health Coach service, it offers free, personalised support to people wanting to make positive changes to their health and wellbeing. Whether it’s stopping smoking, managing weight, improving diet, becoming more active or reducing alcohol intake, Health Coaches are there to help residents take practical, achievable steps toward healthier lifestyles. Find out more here.
And it wouldn’t be a true community gathering without a few unexpected highlights including meeting Winnie, a friendly therapy dog, who was happily soaking up attention and adding an extra layer of warmth to the afternoon.
What stands out most about Munch & Mingle is the sense of belonging it creates. It’s a space where old friends reconnect, new friendships form, and everyone, regardless of age or background can feel welcome and part of the local community. In a time when many people experience isolation, especially during the colder months, gatherings like this quietly but powerfully strengthen local connection.
The next Munch & Mingle sessions will take place on Monday 23rd February, Monday 30th March, and Monday 27th April. If you haven’t been along yet, it’s well worth a visit. Go for the soup, stay for the conversation and leave feeling just a that little bit more connected.
Find out about the latest projects and upcoming news and events in Queens East by following them on Facebook: Community Conversations – Queens East
