I’m Jade, I’m 31, and I live in Newark. Since I was 17, I’ve faced serious mental and physical health challenges. One of the hardest has been agoraphobia. For years, just the thought of leaving the house filled me with extreme anxiety. It destroyed my confidence and left me feeling very low and isolated.
But everything started to change in December 2024. I managed to make it out to a local Christmas market near my house—that was a big step for me. While I was there, I met a really kind lady who told me about the Chatter & Natter table that happens every Thursday from 1:30pm to 2:30 pm at Café Bakers Sixty Two, just five minutes from my home.
I explained to her how hard it was for me to even leave the house. Unbelievably, she offered to meet me at my front door the following Thursday and walk with me to the café. She did that a couple more times, and soon I found the courage to go on my own.
“Now, thanks to The Chatty Café Scheme, I leave the house regularly, without even thinking about it. It truly was the lifeline I needed. I’ve barely missed a week since. That hour of friendly chat has made a huge difference, and I now spend time with the very people who, without even realising it, helped me break free from years of fear and anxiety.“
The volunteer, Mary, is absolutely fantastic. I live alone, and the table has been a wonderful way to meet others. What worked so well for me was how informal it all is—there’s no pressure to sign up or commit. You can just show up and chat. That really suited me.
I’ve always loved crocheting, and the group gave me the confidence to share that passion. I never felt judged or silly for loving something like knitting—it was accepted and celebrated.
Since joining the Chatter & Natter table, my life has completely turned around. I’m hardly ever at home now! Over the past two months, I’ve started two crochet classes in my village and I also do one-to-one sessions to help others learn the craft. I’ve even registered to sell my work at a local market and I’m working on setting up an online store.
I can’t thank you enough for this simple, yet life-changing service. I wish more people—especially those who live alone—knew about Chatter & Natter tables. They’re a fantastic way to meet new people and feel connected to your local community.
