Assalamualaikum - Niqabi sister in Manchester seeking friends and advice

Assalamualaikum, I’m a niqabi living in Greater Manchester and I wanted to see if there are any local sisters here, especially those who also wear the niqab? I find it really hard to make friends while wearing the niqab, particularly in places where most people aren’t Muslim. I’ve considered going to women‑only activities like baking or craft workshops to push myself despite my severe social anxiety, but I worry about standing out, being avoided, or the niqab becoming a barrier since many attendees would be non‑Muslims. Even at women‑only events I don’t feel comfortable uncovering. With photos, CCTV and social media everywhere, and the chance that men might enter certain venues, it doesn’t feel safe to remove my niqab. Some days I question my relationship with the niqab because of the clear challenges it brings - communication is harder, I feel very isolated, eating or drinking outdoors is awkward, making friends and doing everyday errands all feel more difficult. I’d really value any practical tips from sisters who’ve been through this. How do you handle social situations, build friendships, or find a supportive community while wearing the niqab? I know there are local Islamic groups that run sisters’ gatherings, but with my social anxiety I can’t bring myself to go alone as a newcomer. I tried contacting the organisers but they just told me to turn up and that wasn’t very helpful. I’m happy for sisters to message me privately. JazakAllah khair for reading, and may Allah make things easy for all of us.