A new Brecon community organisation is bringing women together to have open conversations about health, wellbeing and everyday life.

Ebb & Flow Brecon was set up by local women Donna Elliott, Marianne Jervis and Sarah Murphy, who felt there was a need for a welcoming space where women could talk about issues they do not always have the opportunity to discuss openly.

The not-for-profit organisation has now held a number of events covering subjects including the menopause, Dry January, imposter syndrome and motherhood.

Earlier this year, Ebb & Flow marked International Women’s Day with a journalling workshop, while a May event called Breast Intentions explored breast health and the experiences of women.

The group’s next event, Unmasking: Women’s Stories of Neurodiversity, will take place at The Guildhall in Brecon on Monday, September 14.

Marianne and Donna will host an informal panel discussion featuring three women sharing their own experiences of neurodiversity.

Topics will include diagnosis and self-discovery, masking, perfectionism, the mental load, burnout and self-acceptance.

Rather than a formal presentation, the event will be based around conversation, with those attending able to ask questions, share their own experiences or simply listen.

Donna said the idea for Ebb & Flow came from a shared feeling between the three directors that there was something missing in Brecon.

“We wanted to create something that felt welcoming and informal rather than clinical or prescriptive,” she said.

“Somewhere women could listen to other women’s experiences, hear from people with knowledge or lived experience, ask questions if they wanted to, or simply sit and listen.”

The response so far has encouraged the group, with women returning to later events alongside new faces.

One of the things they have particularly enjoyed is seeing conversations continue after events have officially finished, with women staying behind to chat, share experiences and make connections.

The organisation aims to keep its regular events free wherever possible, with donations, sponsorship and support from local businesses helping to cover the costs.

There is no expectation for anyone attending to speak or share personal experiences.

“There's no expectation when somebody comes to an Ebb & Flow event,” Donna said.

“You don't have to share anything, know anyone or even understand much about the subject beforehand.

“You can just come along, have a cup of tea, listen and hopefully leave feeling that you've gained something from being there.”

The name Ebb & Flow reflects the different stages of life and the ups and downs that come with them.

The organisers hope the community will continue to grow and are keen to hear from women with ideas for future events, as well as people interested in volunteering.

Local businesses are also being invited to support the organisation through sponsorship.

Women interested in attending future events can follow Ebb & Flow Brecon on Facebook and Instagram for details.

“Brecon has a fantastic community, but we felt there was room for something specifically centred around women and the conversations we don't always have in our everyday lives,” added Donna.