A different kind of conversation: Is women's safety at risk in the Highlands?

At The Highland Circle, we get together regularly to share a meal and explore questions that matter to our community - away from online debates, comment sections and algorithms that can so often divide us.

Everyone comes with a different story and perspective. The aim isn't to debate, convince others or even reach agreement, but to understand why people see things differently and connect across divides. All perspectives are welcome, as long as they're shared with kindness and respect.

This month will be a little different, as we'll begin the session with a short film to kick the discussion off.

This month's question is:

Is women's safety at risk in the Highlands?

We know that women can face real risks in their everyday lives, from harassment and sexual violence to abuse in relationships. But what does this look like here in our Highland communities, and how does it affect people’s lives?

People will have different experiences, perspectives and concerns about what contributes to these risks. For some, it might be attitudes towards women and gender inequality. Others might have concerns about policing, immigration or wider changes in society. This session is about making space for those different experiences and perspectives, sharing our stories and taking the time to listen to and understand one another.

We recognise that this can be a difficult and sensitive topic to talk about. You only need to share what you feel comfortable with, and if you do choose to share something, you can do so in whatever way feels right for you. There will also be a trained person available to offer support if you need it at any point during the session.

As always, we'll have 15 places available across different viewpoints:

5 tickets – Yes

5 tickets – No

5 tickets – I'm not sure

This conversation is for everyone, whether you have strong views or aren't sure what to think. It's a chance to listen, share experiences and understand different perspectives.

Please note: This is a private event for ticket holders only. Photographs will only be taken by the organisers and only with participants' consent.

Description supplied by the event organiser.