Good Company. No Expectations.

Sometimes all you need is somewhere to go, a friendly face and a bit of company. Our People is a free, informal community where everyone is welcome, whether you want to talk, listen or simply be around others.

  • Free to attend
  • Ages 18+
  • No booking required

A free community initiative, proudly hosted by Rage Out

What is Our People?

Our People is a free, informal social and support community for adults in Maidstone. It's a community initiative, proudly sponsored and hosted by Rage Out.

It's somewhere to meet people, talk, listen, make friends or simply enjoy some company, without feeling judged or pressured.

Our People is open to men and women aged 18 and over. Our Facebook community welcomes both men and women, while in-person sessions are held separately.

You don't need a reason to come

You don't need to be going through a hard time or have mental health difficulties. You won't be asked to share anything personal or explain why you're there. Wanting some company, a chat or a new friend is reason enough.

Our People is an informal community, not professional counselling or therapy.

In-person gatherings

Men's and women's sessions are held separately. Both are free and for ages 18 and over.

Men's Group

  • Every Tuesday
  • 18:30–20:00
  • Starting Tuesday 10th November 2026
  • Rage Out, 89 Bank Street, Maidstone, ME14 1SD
  • Free attendance
  • Ages 18+
  • No booking required

Women's Group

  • Launching in the New Year (2027)
  • Dates and times to be announced
  • Free attendance
  • Ages 18+
  • Separate sessions from the men's group

What to expect

Nothing is structured or formal. There are no compulsory introductions, speeches or group discussions: come as you are and do whatever feels right for you.

  • No judgement, no pressure and no expectations.
  • You'll be personally welcomed when you arrive.
  • You don't have to give your name or introduce yourself.
  • There's no obligation to speak or share personal experiences.
  • Free self-service tea, coffee and water.
  • Comfortable spaces for conversation, and quieter areas if you need a little time alone.
  • Arrive or leave whenever you like during the session.
  • You don't have to come every week.
  • Voluntary donations are welcome, but never expected.

Our Principles & Guidelines

Our principles and guidelines help keep Our People safe, respectful and welcoming for everyone.

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These principles help us create a safe, respectful and welcoming space for everyone.

  1. Everyone is welcome. You'll always be greeted with respect, kindness and an open mind.
  2. No judgement. Everyone's story is different. We listen without judgement and respect each other's views.
  3. Confidentiality. What's shared here, stays here. Please respect the privacy of others.
  4. No pressure to speak. You're welcome to listen, join in or simply be around other people. It's entirely up to you.
  5. Respect for everyone. We treat everyone with kindness and consideration, whatever their background or experience.
  6. Support, not advice. We share experiences and support each other. There's no pressure to give or take advice.
  7. Be yourself. Come as you are. There's no expectation to explain or justify anything.
  8. Inclusive and equal. Our People is for all adults, regardless of age, background, beliefs or life experience.
  9. Positive support. We focus on encouraging, understanding and lifting each other up.
  10. Good company. Sometimes just being around others can make a big difference.
  11. And one for luck… Life's better when we look out for each other.
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Read Our Guidelines as text

These guidelines help keep our sessions safe, respectful and enjoyable for everyone.

  1. Be respectful. Treat everyone with kindness and consideration. Different experiences and opinions are welcome.
  2. Keep it confidential. Please don't share other people's stories or personal information outside the group.
  3. No pressure to speak. You're welcome to listen, join in or simply be around other people. There's no expectation to share anything.
  4. No discrimination or offensive behaviour. We do not tolerate discrimination, hate speech or any behaviour that makes others feel uncomfortable.
  5. No alcohol or drugs. Please do not attend under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Anyone who appears unfit to take part may be asked to leave.
  6. Arrive and leave freely. You can arrive late, leave early or stay for the whole session. Do what feels right for you.
  7. Voluntary donations. Tea, coffee and water are provided free of charge. Voluntary donations are welcome to help cover refreshments and venue costs, but are never expected.
  8. This is not therapy. Our People is an informal community for friendship, conversation and mutual support. We do not provide professional counselling or therapy.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to book?

No. Just turn up whenever you feel comfortable.

Do I have to talk?

Not at all. You're welcome to listen, enjoy a cuppa or simply be around other people.

Can I arrive late or leave early?

Yes. Sessions run from 18:30 to 20:00, but you can arrive and leave whenever you like.

Is it really free?

Yes. Attendance and refreshments are free. Donations are appreciated but entirely voluntary.

Is this only for people experiencing mental health difficulties?

No. Our People is for anyone who would appreciate friendship, conversation or company.

Are the men's and women's sessions separate?

Yes. In-person sessions are held separately, but our Facebook community welcomes everyone aged 18 and over.

Is this counselling or therapy?

No. Our People is an informal community, not a professional mental health or counselling service.

Can I bring food or drinks?

We ask attendees not to bring outside food or drinks. Free tea, coffee and water are provided.

Can I attend without giving my name?

Absolutely. You don't need to share your name or personal details.

Where we meet

Rage Out
89 Bank Street
Maidstone
ME14 1SD

Our People sessions are hosted at Rage Out, but the venue's normal paid activities aren't included. There are no rage rooms or axe throwing at Our People, just good company.

Get directions

Coming by car or train? See parking and trains near Rage Out.

Join our Facebook community

Our Facebook group welcomes both men and women aged 18 and over. It's somewhere to connect, share experiences and support each other between in-person gatherings.

Proudly hosted by Rage Out

Rage Out proudly sponsors and hosts Our People. Sessions are free, and optional donations help towards refreshments and running costs.

Interested in supporting Our People?

Local businesses interested in helping support our free community gatherings are welcome to get in touch.

Get in touch

A question about Our People, or thinking about coming along? Send a message below.

Need urgent help? Call Samaritans free on 116 123, NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.

Messages go to Rage Out, who host Our People, and are passed on to the Our People team.

Everyone deserves somewhere to belong.

No booking needed. Just turn up whenever you feel comfortable.