The Chatty Cafe Scheme is the UK’s leading non‑profit social enterprise tackling loneliness and social isolation. We create simple, welcoming opportunities for people to connect in everyday places.
Our Chatter & Natter tables run in hundreds of cafés, community venues and public spaces across the UK. They’re friendly, open-to-all conversation tables where anyone can sit, chat and feel part of their community. Many are supported by our brilliant volunteers who help make each table warm, inclusive and easy to join.
Our purpose is to encourage human interaction and conversation, improving the lives of people affected by loneliness.
Our mission is to reduce loneliness by building a national network of volunteer‑led Chatter & Natter tables that offer simple, low‑pressure moments of connection.
Our vision is a UK where conversation is part of everyday life – a nationwide network of chat tables that bring people together, strengthen communities and help everyone feel they belong.
“I don’t consider myself isolated, but I’m looking forward to going to one of these, just to chat to people I don’t normally chat to, and be part of the escape from the ‘glued-to-a-screen’ culture”
Jane Dent, United Kingdom
“I have long periods where I don’t speak to anyone, I can go a few days without speaking to anyone. After the call I feel happier and calmer. It helps me feel part of things. At the end of each day I think, did I speak to anyone today? And Monday’s I always can say I did.”
Andy, Norfolk, Receiving weekly calls from a Chatty Volunteer
“It just helps to chat to someone to get things off your chest, after my call I feel a lot better.”
Amy, Oldham, Receiving weekly calls from a Chatty Volunteer
“Joining the Virtual Chatty Cafe allowed me to meet like-minded people from far and wide for interesting conversations which benefited me on both a personal and professional level as well as contributing to the community project I run. It was a great source of support to be able to meet with other people involved in promoting community well-being in various forms and it was fun too!”
Carol, Cornwall, after attending a virtual Chatty Cafe session
“A bit of honest laughter and conversation with so many different people in all walks of life makes you realise that many people suffer with loneliness and the lack of companionship. It also makes you more understanding of what other people are dealing with when all it takes is a conversation and a bit of understanding and kindness to make a difference. The Chatty Café Scheme is a simple idea which produces amazing results by just talking and communicating with others.”
Colin, Wolverhampton, after attending a virtual Chatty Cafe session
“I just wanted to say thank you for the service you provide.
The weekly calls gave me something to look forward to and gave me confidence to make positive changes in my lifestyle. One phone call a week may not seem like much but it can make such a difference, it certainly did for me and I hope it does for others who also feel lonely and isolated.
Thank you so much.”
John, Maidstone, a beneficiary of the weekly telephone befriending calls
“We’re part of this scheme and our Chatter & Natter table is used daily. You never know what people are going through and a nice chat can mean the world to someone.”
Mooplehog cafe, Okehampton, England
“I think the scheme is amazing, it certainly is making a difference here and I love seeing how it is spreading, you guys do a fantastic job.”
Red Lodge Sports Pavillion, Bury Saint Edmunds, England
“We joined the Chatty Cafe Scheme and we’re proud to say it’s going really well.”
Moments Cafe & Hub, Plymouth, England
“What a truly wonderful idea, imagine the healing that can occur over a cuppa.”
Hummingbirds Events & Workshops
“After the success of The Chatty Cafe at Morley Library, we’re going to roll it out to 3 of our libraries. We’re looking to expand The Chatty Cafe Scheme across Leeds.”
Leeds City Council, Leeds, England
“You should be very proud – our customers are absolutley loving it. Congratulations!”
The Daisy Cafe, Exeter, England
“The box of goodies is so useful. Thank you, I am so impressed with the Welsh translation too, it is important here! It’s a great help.”
Val Bethell, Cafe Owner, Wales
“We hold a Chatter & Natter table as part of The Chatty Cafe Scheme every Friday. We dedicate this table to those on their own looking for someone to chat to, whether its for five minutes while you drink a brew, or an hour of good conversation.”
