June 2026 Cover Story

Join us at the next Learning to Date event!

This month’s cover features get2gether members at last year’s Learning to Date event at the fantastic Leith Depot. At get2gether, June 2026 is all about connection and trying something new together. Meeting new people and navigating dating can feel exciting, but it can also feel a bit nerve-racking too, which is why Learning to Date is such an important part of our events programme. It’s a chance for members of the get2gether community to practice their dating skills in a relaxed space where you can take things at your own pace.

We are excited to be hosting the second Learning to Date of 2026 this June and fort his months cover story we have spoken to members who have already taken part to give you an idea of what to expect!.

What is Learning to Date?

Learning to Date is a space where members can build confidence, meet new people, and explore dating in a supportive environment. It is not a real date. Instead, it’s about trying things out, learning as you go, and getting more comfortable in social situations. Some people come along because they’re curious about dating, others to build confidence.

Lauren, a get2gether member who has volunteered at Learning to Date since the very beginning, says the event gives people something many members have never had before: the chance to practice dating in a safe and supportive space.

“Everybody deserves the opportunity to practice dating in a safe and supportive space. I’ve never heard of anything else like it before, and I think that’s incredible because there is such a need for it.” – Lauren, get2gether member and Learning to Date volunteer

What to expect and members experience

The night is set up so people can take part in a way that suits them. In one room, there’s a speed dating-style setup with short one-to-one conversations. It’s a simple way to practise meeting people, and there are prompts on the tables if you need a bit of help getting started. In the other space, people can head into the bar area where things are more relaxed and informal.

The bar area also gives members the chance to chat together about the experience. Some people go there before the dating starts to talk through nerves, share ideas, and think about what they might want to say. Others use it afterwards to reflect on how things went and share what they learned from the evening.

We have volunteers and staff in both spaces throughout the evening, supporting the flow of the event and being there if needed.

For many members, one of the biggest surprises is how quickly conversations start to feel natural. David, who attended one of the previous events, said he surprised himself with how easily he was able to keep conversations going throughout the night.

“It was great to practice and get the chance to meet the new volunteers. I was surprised at how well I was able to keep the flow of conversation. I usually cope better when I can prepare, but you can’t prepare because you don’t know who you’re going to be paired with. I was really surprised by myself when I just went with it and kept talking.” – David, get2gether member

For some people, coming along is about pushing through nerves and realising they are more confident than they thought. Sophie shared that while she felt nervous at the start of the evening, she left feeling proud of herself.

“I was really nervous, but by the end I felt proud of myself. My first (practice) date went really well and I wasn’t as nervous as I expected. It was easier than I thought.” – Sophie, get2gether member

For others, the experience has had a lasting impact beyond the event itself. Elliot said Learning to Date helped them reflect on boundaries, confidence, and relationships.

“Learning to Date was absolutely awesome. I learned so much about myself and how to relate better to other people. I now do much better at defining my boundaries, and I know I am worthy of friendship.” – Elliot, get2gether member

Join us!

You can find all the details about the next Learning to Date event in your June 2026 Community Magazine, or email us at office@get2gether.org.uk to find out how to get involved. We can’t wait to see you there!