Bristol & Gloucestershire 40+ Social Group

Who we are
The Bristol & Gloucestershire 40+ Social Group is a community-based social group facilitated through the Meetup platform. Our aim is simple: to help people aged 40 and over meet new people, make genuine friendships and enjoy social activities together in and around Bristol, Gloucestershire and nearby areas.
We organise a wide range of events including meals, pub socials, walks, days out and occasional online events. Events are usually held in public places or commercial venues open to the public.
We are very much about quality over quantity. Events are intentionally kept to smaller numbers where possible, as we find this creates a more relaxed welcoming environment where people can chat, connect and feel comfortable. Because of this, events can fill up quickly so it pays to keep an eye on announcements.
Who the group is for
This group is for adults aged 40 and over who want to get out, be social and enjoy what the local area has to offer. You don’t need to be single to join - couples are welcome. Many members come on their own and our events are designed to be friendly and inclusive, especially for those who may be new to social groups.
The group is about building a social circle, doing things together and having fun in a relaxed,
pressure-free way.
How the group is run
Bristol & Gloucestershire 40+ Social Group is run on a voluntary, not-for-profit basis. All events are organised and hosted by unpaid volunteers. Our organisers and hosts are not professional event organisers, guides, leaders, instructors, or first aiders.
The group does not provide professional supervision, instruction, or medical support. Events are organised in good faith by volunteers to bring people together socially.
Event sizes and types
To help events run smoothly, typical maximum numbers are:
• Walks: up to 20 attendees
• Meals with table bookings: up to 10 attendees
Final numbers may vary depending on the venue, type of event, or practical considerations and are always at the discretion of the event host.
Walks and outdoor activities
In addition to social events, the group organises countryside walks of varying lengths and difficulty. Walks are graded to help members choose events that suit their fitness, experience, and comfort level.
Participation, responsibility and risk
Participation in all events is entirely voluntary and undertaken at your own risk. By attending an event
you confirm that you are medically fit, suitably prepared and capable of taking part.
You are responsible for your own safety, actions, health and personal belongings at all times.
Activities may involve inherent risks, including but not limited to:
• Walking on or near roads and road crossings
• Uneven, muddy, steep, or slippery terrain
• Stiles, steps, and natural obstacles
• Livestock such as cattle, sheep, or horses
• Adverse or changing weather conditions
Members are responsible for assessing these risks themselves and deciding whether to participate.
Preparation and equipment
Members are responsible for wearing appropriate footwear and clothing, carrying sufficient food and water and checking weather forecasts before attending an event. Appropriate preparation is essential particularly for outdoor and walking events.
Transport and parking
Members are responsible for their own transport to and from events and for ensuring they park legally and safely. Any lift-sharing arrangements are private agreements between members and are undertaken entirely at individual discretion.
Dogs
Dogs are not permitted at any group events. This restriction is in place to comply with insurance requirements and applies to all events without exception.
Attendance, RSVPs, and cancellations
We understand that life happens and plans can change. If you can no longer attend an event you have RSVP’d to, please change your RSVP to “No” as soon as possible. This helps hosts manage events and allows others on waitlists to attend.
Members are expected to give at least 24 hours’ notice where possible. Repeated no-shows or
last-minute cancellations may result in being placed on waitlists or removal from the group at the discretion of the organisers.
Notifications
It is each member’s responsibility to ensure Meetup notifications are switched on. The group cannot be held responsible for missed event updates, cancellations, or changes.
Conduct and behaviour
We aim to maintain a friendly, respectful and inclusive environment. Members are expected to treat each other with courtesy and respect at all times.
Discrimination, harassment, intimidation, unsolicited contact, or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated and may result in immediate removal from the group.
Behaviour towards organisers and hosts
Organisers and hosts are volunteers who give their time to make events happen. While constructive feedback is welcome, personal criticism or negative behaviour towards hosts is not acceptable.
Profile photos
Members are required to have a clear and identifiable profile photo showing their face. This allows event hosts to identify attendees.
Subscriptions and refunds
The group operates on a paid subscription basis to help cover essential costs such as insurance and Meetup fees. Membership subscriptions are non-refundable once paid- regardless of attendance or participation.
Disclaimer
Participation in all events organised by the Bristol & Gloucestershire 40+ Social Group is entirely voluntary and undertaken at your own risk.
Please note dogs are not allowed at any events.
The Group is a social community. Events may include informal social gatherings (such as meals or drinks in public venues) and occasional walks or outdoor activities. The Group does not provide professional guiding, instruction, supervision, or medical support, and organisers and event hosts are volunteers, not qualified leaders or first aiders.
By attending any event, you confirm that you are responsible for your own health, safety, and personal belongings, and that you are comfortable taking part based on your own abilities and circumstances. You should assess your own fitness and suitability for any walking or outdoor event and take appropriate precautions.
The Group, group organisers and event hosts do not accept responsibility for any accident, injury, loss, or damage that may occur during or in connection with any Group event, including travel to and from events.
Nothing in this disclaimer is intended to exclude or limit liability where it cannot legally be excluded under UK law. (Amended 27.12.2025) Link to Health and Safety policies
We look forward to welcoming you to an event soon.

James (Organiser)
Bristol & Gloucestershire 40+ Social Group