Hayley Stanton
Community Leadership, Inclusion, Health and Wellbeing
Suggested by Tom Bungay
From Tom, "In 2017 Hayley founded Quiet Connections, a non-profit community interest company providing safe and inclusive spaces and activities to facilitate connections amongst an underrepresented and misunderstood group - namely those people in our society who identify as introverted, sensitive, shy or simply of a quieter temperament. She has undertaken many narrative change projects during this time, the most impactful of which is the setting up of regular weekly meet ups throughout Cornwall, that allow members to connect in a way that feels authentic to their true quiet selves.
Before joining Quiet Connections as a member, my life had very little meaning, and I felt overwhelmed by the world I lived in. Since joining, I have been inspired to take on challenges I may not have before. With Hayley's gentle guidance, I have progressed to become a "Quiet Connector" - a voluntary role that involves the running of the weekly meetups and is there to help people feel safe and comfortable. She also gave me the opportunity to get involved with the day to day running of QC, giving an immeasurable boost to my confidence and sense of place.
Hayley, born in Cornwall and founded her business here, is passionate about helping the quiet people of Cornwall, building relationships with other Cornish non profits to enhance involvement in the local community.
When there are gaps in community funding, Hayley runs Quiet Connections, without taking a wage, providing unwavering support to all volunteers and in a way that feels particularly personal. Despite the immense workload that comes with running a community facing business, she always has time for individual members and manages to balance the personal and professional. Hayley's work brings awareness of quietness and the strengths of quieter people to society at large."
@quietconnections