Friends' online talk FAQs

• Click the registration link in the invitation email. 
• You’ll be asked for a few simple details, such as your name and email address. (we use this so we know who to expect on the day and can send you the joining link and any updates). 

Once you’ve registered, you’re all set.

After registering, you’ll receive a confirmation email from us. This email includes the date, time and link to join the online talk. 

You don’t need to do anything else at this stage, just keep the email somewhere handy.

• You will receive a reminder email automatically around one hour before the online talk begins. 
• If you’ve registered for a session time that no longer works for you, you can update or cancel your registration at any point.. To do this, open your confirmation email and click the cancel or manage registration link included there. 

Helpful tip: To keep everything in one place, you can copy the joining link from your confirmation email and add it to your calendar or save it somewhere safe, so it’s easy to find on the day.

We recommend joining the online talk on time where possible, so you don’t miss any of the welcome or the first part of the conversation.

That said, we understand that occasionally things come up. If you arrive a little later than planned, you can still join using the same link, just be aware that the session may already be underway.

If you unexpectedly need to leave before the end, you can do so quietly and easily. There is no need to explain yourself, we simply want you to feel comfortable taking part in a way that works for you.

Click the joining link in your reminder or confirmation email.

This will open in your internet browser, you do not need to download anything.

You may see a message saying something like 'someone will let you in soon'.

This is completely normal, it just means you’re in the digital waiting area. Everyone will be let in when the talk begins.

You’ll be able to see and hear the speakers automatically. The chat function will be available, so you can say hello, introduce yourself, or chat with other attendees if you’d like.

Taking part via chat is completely optional, you’re welcome to join in or simply listen.

Most people join with their microphone muted and their camera turned off. This is very common and absolutely fine.

There will be opportunities to ask questions or share comments using the chat or Q&A. (If you're not sure how these work, don’t worry, the host will explain them at the start of the session.)

You're welcome to say hello, introduce yourself, or join in with the conversation via chat if you’d like. Taking part is completely optional, you’re just as welcome to sit back and listen.

You’ll never be expected to speak out loud or turn your camera on.

We recommend joining the online talk on time where possible, so you don’t miss any of the welcome or the first part of the conversation.

That said, we understand that occasionally things come up. If you arrive a little later than planned, you can still join using the same link, just be aware that the session may already be underway.

If you unexpectedly need to leave before the end, you can do so quietly and easily. There is no need to explain yourself, we simply want you to feel comfortable taking part in a way that works for you.

After the session has finished, we’ll be in touch to close the loop and hear how you found it.

We’ll send a follow‑up email the day after the online talk, which will include a recording of the session. This gives you the chance to revisit anything you ’d like or watch again in your own time.

This email will also include a short feedback survey. We would be really grateful if you could take a few moments to share your thoughts when you receive this survey. Your feedback is genuinely valued and plays an important role in shaping future sessions.

If you have any questions at all, or would like a bit of extra support before or after one of our online talks, our friendly Supporter Care team is always happy to help. Just email [email protected].

Thank you for being part of our community. We’re really pleased to have you with us and hope you enjoy taking part in our online talks, in whatever way feels right for you.