Grant to The Chatty Cafe Scheme CIC (360G-thefore-GB-COH-12111574_2026-04-01)

The Chatty Cafe Scheme brings people together through conversation to reduce loneliness in communities across the UK. Through informal ‘Chatter and Natter ’ tables in cafés, pubs and community venues, they have supported around 30,000 people and built a network of over 850 venues. However, rapid growth has placed pressure on their central team and there are over 1,000 people waiting to volunteer. With our funding, The Chatty Cafe Scheme will recruit a Volunteer Coordinator and establish 12 regional volunteer hubs. This model will improve volunteer support and retention, strengthen local partnerships, and unlock the capacity needed to expand their reach and sustain their growth.