A CHARITY that reduces loneliness through conversation has started regular sessions in Keynsham.
The Chatty Café Scheme operates at the Bonzo Lounge in Market Walk between 10am and 11am on Mondays (except bank holidays).
A ‘Chatter & Natter’ table hosted by a volunteer is allocated for those aged over 18 to come and mix with other people.
Anyone can join in, whether they are on their own, in a couple or with a friend. The scheme welcomes carers with the person they care for, mums, dads or grandparents with babies, young people, older people and anyone in between.
People can stay for just five minutes or longer – just look for the table with the ‘Chatter & Natter’ sign.
The charity describes the scheme as a great way to meet new people in the community.
It says: “It’s not about making life-long friends, just having good old-fashioned human interaction.”
The Chatty Café Scheme was started by Alexandra Hoskyn after a miserable day at a supermarket café with her infant son, where she noticed that no one was talking to each other. She found that simply putting ‘Chatter & Natter’ signs on café tables created a space for people to talk.
The scheme has already proved to be effective, as reflected in a report by Coventry University showing that 100% of Chatter & Natter table users said it made them feel less lonely and socially isolated and that 97% of venues felt that the tables encouraged community spirit.
The Chatty Café Scheme commented: “The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted those experiencing loneliness and we know that simply having a chat can brighten someone’s day.”
For more information, visit https://thechattycafescheme.co.uk/
Chatty Cafe reduces loneliness in Keynsham
