Chatty Café: Combating Isolation with a Cup of Tea

Chatty Café: Combating Isolation with a Cup of Tea
Chatty Café: Combating Isolation with a Cup of Tea

We are excited to share the heart-warming story of our very own Debra, our dedicated finance assistant, who is making a difference in our community through the Chatty Café scheme.

The Chatty Café Scheme UK is a fantastic initiative aimed at reducing loneliness and social isolation by encouraging conversation and connection over a simple cup of coffee or tea. You can learn more about the scheme here

But that’s not all. Thanks to another wonderful charity, Linking Lives, we were able to sponsor training for Debra's church and another local church. The training focused on effective ways to engage with individuals facing isolation, equipping volunteers with the skills needed to make meaningful connections. Learn more about Linking Lives UK here.

Recognising the potential to make a significant impact, Debra took the initiative to merge the benefits of both organisations. Leveraging the invaluable training she received from Linking Lives, she now hosts a table at the first Chatty Café in Cornwall at Café Avodah, part of the Gateway Church in Launceston. Her vision is simple yet powerful: create a welcoming space where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

Debra shared her enthusiasm about the project: "The Chatty Café is more than just a place to grab a coffee. It's about building a sense of community, one conversation at a time. I’m grateful for the support from Linking Lives and the opportunity to make a positive impact here in Launceston."

We are incredibly proud of Debra and her commitment to fostering connections within our community. Her work is a testament to the difference one person can make with a bit of training, a lot of heart, and a passion for bringing people together.

For more information, or if you’d like to get involved, feel free to reach out to Debra she’s usually in the office on Tuesdays.