Do you sometimes feel alone in difficult times? A community of circumstance can make a big difference then. These are groups of people who come together through shared circumstances for support and understanding. Find out how these communities can help you overcome challenges in life.
A community of circumstance is created by unexpected or shared life events. You often do not choose this yourself, as with new parents, grief groups or people in the same stage of life. These communities revolve around shared circumstances rather than shared interests or geographical locations. They are temporary, but often offer emotional support and understanding. Unlike a community of practice, this group focuses more personally on the individual. People come together from diverse backgrounds, linked by external factors. Their unique dynamics provide a safe place for sharing experiences and challenges. Move on to how these groups can help you with life challenges.
Communities of shared circumstance provide a safe space. Here you can find support during difficult life stages or major changes.
Sharing experiences within a community of circumstance can be very supportive. People with shared circumstances learn from each other and find recognition.
Members of a community of circumstance offer each other emotional support. This is often done by showing empathy and understanding for each other’s situation. For example, new parents share challenges around parenting and find recognition from others in the same stage of life. This creates a sense of belonging and reinforces solidarity. Solidarity arises from shared circumstances such as life stages or difficult periods. You notice how temporary communities can help you overcome with support. This makes you feel less alone. Practical help and advice further strengthen this feeling.
A community of circumstance offers valuable practical advice. A powerful example of this is cancer.nl, an online community where people affected by cancer can find support and information. Here, patients and their loved ones share experiences, get advice on treatments and find recognition from others going through the same thing. In this community, people learn from each other’s stories, which helps them cope better with the emotional and practical challenges of cancer.
At cancer.co.uk, we helped with:
This approach not only keeps the community running, but also maintains its value and meaning for members. The importance of such a community cannot be stressed enough: in difficult times, it provides a foothold, a place where people feel understood and supported.
A strong community does not arise by itself. It requires a thoughtful approach, clear goals and continuous involvement. Here’s how you tackle it:
🔍 Target group analysis
We dive into the needs, interests and behaviour of your target group. This forms the basis for an effective community strategy.
💡 Concept & Strategy
A powerful community concept and smart strategy ensure that members feel connected and actively participate.
🚀 Ambassador programme
Core members play a key role. We help them become ambassadors who strengthen and grow the community.
🎉 Events
Whether online or offline, events bring people together and increase interaction and engagement.
🤝 Stakeholders & Partners
Together you are stronger. We engage relevant parties and build valuable collaborations.
📢 Community Communication
Clear and catchy communication keeps the community engaged and ensures interaction.
🖥️ Platform & Technology
The right platform and smart tools make the community experience optimal. We help with selection and implementation.
🔄 Support & Growth
A community is never ‘finished’. We provide guidance, monitoring and optimisation to ensure impact and growth.
Want to build and grow a powerful community? We will help you further! 🚀
Everyone encounters challenges in life. Through a community of circumstance, you find support with people in the same situation. Together you share experiences, practical tips and emotional help. The sense of belonging gives strength and courage. Think about how you can apply this or support others! Find out more about how a community of purpose can enrich your life on our page on communities of purpose.
A community of circumstance is a group of people connected by shared circumstances, such as life stages or challenges.
A community of circumstance focuses on shared circumstances, while a community of interest is about shared interests and a community of practice is about professional skills.
In a community of circumstance, members can share experiences, show understanding and support each other during difficult moments in life, such as new parenthood.
Shared goals create connection and cooperation within the group, which enhances the effectiveness of the community.
Community management helps in organising the group, promoting involvement and ensuring that the community achieves its purpose.
