Across Scotland politics is getting more and more polarised. Racism and climate denial is gaining traction, especially on social media, and with the Scottish elections taking place soon, these debates are likely to get even more heated.

One of the ways we can push back on this is by building up the skills to have challenging conversations with people who disagree with us, in our communities, workplaces and homes. Doing this takes patience and skills, but it’s not impossible, and it’s something that we can all do with a little bit of practice.

It’s often said that a rule for community organising is that you should spend 80% of your time talking to people who disagree with you, but a lot of social movements focus on those who are already on board. If we want to push forward progressive campaigns, we all need to build up our ability to talk, not debate, with those with opposing views to ours.

Based on research from Hope not Hate, this month's National Meeting for FoES members will share skills and top tips on how to have these tricky but essential conversations. It will also include opportunities to practice safely with other FoES members.

No previous organising experience necessary and there will be no pressure to participate in any of the practice activities. Come along and let’s learn together!

The session will take place on zoom from 6:30-8pm on Wednesday 28th January

This National Meeting is member-only. To join us today for a little as £1 a month please visit www.foe.scot/join