Roots Exchange: Sharing Stories, Perspectives, and Making New Connections

Six Weeks. Two Lives. Stories Exchanged, Perspectives Shared.

Roots Adult Exchange is a completely free, 6-week programme funded by the UK Lottery Community Fund.

It pairs people living in the UK from different backgrounds and lived experiences, guiding them through a structured, considered, and supported exchange of stories and reflections, leading to a final conversation built on trust.

You’ll swap photos, memories, and reflections at first, guided by simple exercises provided by Roots — building trust and insight before meeting your exchange partner online for a final conversation.

HERE'S HOW IT WORKS:

• 🗓 Six weeks, starting 16 May 2025
• 🕒 One hour maximum a week needed at a time that suits you
• ✉️ Weekly guided exercises — no prep needed, just curiosity
• 💬 Online throughout, with a final group reflection session

Note: 🗓️ After registering, you'll need to book a short welcome call with Clare – details will follow by email. Spots go fast!"

WHY JOIN?

• Share your story and hear someone else's in return
• Discover new perspectives and strengthen your sense of community
• Engage in meaningful conversations beyond everyday small talk
• Reflect on your own journey while discovering another
• Make a new, unexpected connection with someone you might not have met otherwise

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

• Anyone who is curious and open to connecting with others.
  
• Anyone 18+
  
• Note: You must currently be living in the UK

GOT QUESTIONS?

What if I'm a bit private or shy?

That’s completely fine. You don’t have to be a big talker to take part.
Each week has simple prompts to guide you — and you only share what you’re comfortable sharing.

Do I need to be really confident at speaking?

No. It’s about honest conversations, not speeches. It’s perfectly fine to take your time.

What if we don’t have anything in common?

You’d be surprised how much you’ll find along the way. The guided topics help you discover shared ground, even if you come from very different worlds.

Is this political?

No. It’s about human stories and everyday life — not debates or arguments.

Do I have to be great with technology?

No complicated tech needed. We'll guide you through simple ways to connect and can support you. If you can click a link and chat, you're ready.

What if something comes up and I can't complete it?

We understand life happens. We ask everyone to commit for 6 weeks, but we’re human too — just keep us in the loop if things change.

TESTIMONIALS

"I feel this project has shaken the safe, familiar bubble in which I live and challenged how I respond to difference. I have learnt to understand myself better and want to continue to be more curious of others." - Past Participant

"I feel in many ways we were able to have much more honest and thoughtful conversations about things I actually care about more easily than with people who I’d call my close friends." - Past Participant

" The intentional coming together to connect over distance has been so fruitful with the exercises and the sharing." - Past Participant

Important Notice: Due to the immersive and highly selective nature of this programme, all interested participants are asked to complete a quick vetting process. Submitting your expression of interest through Eventbrite is the first step, and our team will follow up within a few days to discuss next steps :)

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU :)

SPACES ARE LIMITED SO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST TODAY!