What's the purpose of our group chat?
Research shows peer-to-peer support has a positive impact on behaviour change, emotional wellbeing, and self-confidence, and that being part of a group can steer us towards success in meeting our health goals. We know from people who've previously completed the Second Nature programme that belonging to a group like this can be hugely beneficial for support and motivation, so we’d encourage you to check-in daily, discuss your victories and challenges, post questions, and share ideas!
The health and wellbeing of everyone on our programme is our top priority. In order to provide a friendly, welcoming, and non-judgemental environment, we've created this handy guide to using group chat.
We'd love to see everyone being kind, tolerant, and respectful towards one another so that everyone feels confident to engage in the discussion.
What makes the group chat great?
Ultimately, sharing stories and connecting with others is what makes group chat such a powerful tool! You're not alone in this, so let your group members know how you’re feeling and what your experiences are as you go through the programme.
As everyone's health journey is personal, we ask that any information shared is kept confidential i.e. 'what's said in group chat, stays in group chat!'
In particular, it's great to hear about your:
Achievements - Take a moment to celebrate each step forward that you take. This could be a sudden mindset shift, a noticeable change in your fitness levels, or perhaps you made a healthier food choice in a previously difficult situation. There's no ‘win’ too small to celebrate!
Challenges - As they say, ‘a problem shared, is a problem halved’. Bumps along the way are inevitable, and it’s normal to feel disappointed or overwhelmed at times. Acknowledging how you’re feeling can be a great first step towards a solution, so if you’re finding something difficult, please let your group know. Others may feel the same way too and it can be comforting knowing you're not alone in your struggles.
Ideas and advice - Let your group know if you have any helpful tips or strategies for overcoming common challenges. If you’ve found a great recipe, workout, or article online, feel free to share the link.
Photos and images - Visuals are always welcome, so whether it’s a photo of you, the view from your hike, your first savoury slice, or a positive quote, click the camera icon and upload it!
What comments should I consider carefully before posting?
We've found that certain messages can make people feel uncomfortable or reluctant to use the group chat. Please see below for suggestions on how we can keep this space friendly and useful for everyone.
Tech queries - Have a look at our tech FAQ page by going to 'Profile', 'Settings' and 'Read FAQ'. If your query is unanswered here, please consult our tech support team for further assistance (the 'Speak to customer support' button is at the bottom of the 'Chat' page).
Constructive feedback about the programme - Please share your feedback with our customer support team. Feedback is important to our continued development.
Personal information such as your contact details - Why not add someone from the group as a friend, so that you can share direct messages with each other privately? To do this, click on their profile picture and select 'add friend.'
Comments that might be perceived as criticism or judgement of others in the group (this includes when communicating with our health coaches too - we're here to help you!) - If you'd like to offer advice, please frame it in a kind, non-judgemental way to ensure everyone feels supported.
Sharing details about your business or services in a way which could be considered promotional.
Offensive language or images - Even when used in jest, these posts may make other people in the group feel uncomfortable.
Comments or images that might portray a tone of prejudice - This dialogue doesn't align with our values at Second Nature, therefore please refrain from using this language to ensure that everyone on our programme is treated with dignity and respect. This includes comments against people of a certain gender, sexuality, ethnicity, race, religion, political, or ethical belief.
Details of past experiences, traumas, or sensitive subjects that fall outside the topics covered on our programmes (and therefore our scope of practice as Health Coaches) - Our group chats are intended to be safe and comfortable spaces to support everyone on their health journey. While we appreciate openness and honesty in these groups, posts on sensitive topics can lead to others feeling emotionally triggered and/or uncomfortable. If you're facing challenges that fall outside of our scope of practice, we'd encourage you to seek specialist support.
How to report inappropriate content in the group chat
If you have any concerns about comments in the group chat, you can press and hold the message to report it. For more details on what constitutes a concerning message and how to report this, please read our guide here.
Please note that we take your feedback very seriously. We'll take necessary steps, in line with our terms and conditions, to ensure a comfortable and safe experience for everyone. This can include removing anyone from the group as necessary.
Key takeaways:
The purpose of the group chat is to provide a welcoming, non-judgemental environment that offers motivation, encouragement, and support to everyone throughout their Second Nature journey
The group is a place to ask questions, share information, talk about achievements, and share challenges throughout your journey
The group is a confidential space - at no time should information about others be discussed outside of the group environment
The group chat is an opportunity to be part of a supportive community working together to reach a common goal. The more you support one another the more you'll enjoy your Second Nature journey.
Second Nature won't tolerate any chat or messages of a prejudicial nature or that cause offence to other people on the programme