“The most fruitful and natural exercise for our minds, is in my opinion, conversation”
Michel de Montaigne
Talk Time: Find Your Voice, One Wednesday at a Time
Glossophobia — the fear of public speaking — is the world’s most common fear, affecting an estimated 75% of people. More than heights. More than spiders. So, if the thought of standing up to say a few words at a wedding, a funeral, or your granddaughter’s birthday fills you with dread, you’re in good company — and the Talk Time group was created with exactly that in mind.
A relaxed space to practise
Talk Time is an informal, relaxed group where members can learn and practise the art of speaking in public — at whatever pace suits them. No experience is required. You can come along ready to speak, or simply to listen and soak up the atmosphere; either way, everyone has something to contribute.
The sessions are designed to build confidence gradually, in a friendly and constructive environment. Because the truth is, most of us won’t escape it forever — a family celebration, a colleague’s leaving do, a hobby club AGM — sooner or later, most of us are asked to “say a few words.” Talk Time exists to make sure that moment feels like an opportunity rather than an ordeal.
How a session works
Each month, an agenda is circulated in advance. Sessions are split into two halves:
- A prepared speech or presentation, given by a member on a subject of their own choosing.
- A JAM session — based on the well-loved radio format — where attendees are invited to speak for one minute on a given topic without hesitation, repetition, or deviation. It sounds nerve-wracking on paper, but members consistently find it more amusing than alarming, and it’s often the highlight of the session.
Looking ahead, future meetings may branch out into debates, speech-writing workshops, raconteur sessions, and even a “Desert Island Discs” format — and suggestions from members are always welcome.
A story worth telling
One of the ladies who attended our inaugural meeting was asked by her grandson to listen to him practicing a speech he had been asked to give in a speaking competition. He impressed and inspired her so much that she found the courage to overcome her own nerves and speak at the next Talk Time session — where she was, by all accounts, erudite and excellent.
Her grandson went on to win his competition, representing Lancaster Grammar School. Grandmother and grandson, each finding their voice in the same fortnight — it’s hard to think of a better advertisement for what this group is about.
Why come along
- Build confidence — face your fears and feel less nervous about speaking up.
- Learn by doing — practise both prepared speeches and thinking on your feet.
- Get feedback — kind, constructive tips to help you improve.
- Prepare for events — be ready for the moments that matter.
- Meet people — connect with friendly, supportive peers in a low-pressure setting.
And, as any U3A member will tell you, no group is complete without tea and biscuits in the interval.
The details
Talk Time currently has ten members, with room for up to eighteen at the venue — so there’s plenty of space for new faces.
- When: Monthly, on the second Wednesday of the month
- First session: Wednesday 14th October, 2pm
- Where: Masonic Hall (fully accessible)
- Cost: £1.20 per session
Whether you’re after fresh confidence for an upcoming event or just fancy a couple of hours of good company and conversation, Talk Time offers a warm welcome — and perhaps, like one grandmother we know, an unexpected reason to be proud of yourself.
Group Leader: Christine Ditchfield. Christine is a former member of the Association of Speakers Clubs.
To Join this Group please go here to the