A CHAT club in Dorset is connecting those experiencing loneliness. 

Anne Anderson, 61, founded the Chitter Chatter Club in March 2023, offering weekly meetups in welcoming cafes to try and destigmatise loneliness.  

“I just want to help others,” she said, “I feel it’s my purpose”.

They offer five weekly chat clubs at cafes in Christchurch, Wimborne, Bournemouth, Poole, and Ferndown – as well as two clubs in care homes, which are open to everyone. 

“The residents love a new face, they just brighten up.” 

Members of the Chitter Chatter Club

In November, Chitter Chatter will launch two new clubs in care homes. 

“All the other homes are ringing me up. There’s potential to go nationwide.”

People of all ages attend, with the average being 60, and the oldest 102. 

The clubs are marketed online and with fliers, which Anne sees as the first step in connecting with lonely people. 

“It doesn’t matter if they come in a week, or in a year – they’ll come eventually.

No-one forgets an invite.”

Community outreach is nothing new to Anne who worked to help those affected by homelessness and drug abuse throughout her adult life. 

Members of the Chitter Chatter Club in a cafe

She began experiencing loneliness after she divorced at 35. 

“It hit me really hard. I was a single parent and couldn’t find a place to belong.

“Loneliness tells you that you don’t exist, but when you get acknowledged in the street, you do exist. I made the decision to say hello to everyone I walk past.”

To Anne, the mental and physical effects of loneliness work hand-in-hand.

“Anxiety leads to high blood pressure, heart problems, and obesity.

“Everybody wants to make friends, but they’re waiting for someone to reach out. 

“We help people help themselves.”

To learn more about Chitter Chatter Club, visit: https://www.thechitterchatterclub.co.uk/.

Or contact them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1692830804466544/