Larne Area Community Cluster, in collaboration with the Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network, was thrilled to host a successful ‘Pop-Up Chatty Café’ at Larne Bowling and Lawn Tennis Club on Tuesday, 25th March, from 10:30 am to 1:00 pm. This engaging event aimed to reduce the stigma surrounding loneliness while encouraging open, friendly conversations on the subject.
The concept of the ‘Chatty Café’ is simple yet impactful: designated tables are set up in participating venues where customers can sit if they are open to chatting with others. This initiative fosters social connections, helping to combat isolation and creating a warm, welcoming environment for community members to engage with one another.
The ‘Pop-Up Chatty Café’ was part of a wider initiative by the Larne Area Community Cluster and the Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network to create meaningful opportunities for social interaction. While this event was a one-off awareness initiative, several permanent ‘Chatty Cafes’ operate weekly across the region, ensuring continued support and connection for those seeking companionship. For a full list of these weekly gatherings, visit: www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/MEALonelinessNetwork.
Alderman Maureen Morrow, an elected representative of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and a member of the Larne Area Community Cluster, expressed her support for the event, saying:
“For those feeling isolated, our Pop-Up Chatty Café offered a warm and welcoming space. A simple conversation or a shared moment of laughter can do wonders for lifting someone’s spirits. I truly hope this event inspired more people to reach out and take that first step toward connection.”
She continued:
“One in three people in Northern Ireland are likely to experience loneliness at some point in their lives. You never know who you might meet when attending one of these events. I hope some friendly conversations were shared, making a real difference to someone’s day.”
The Larne Area Community Cluster continues to play a vital role in promoting community collaboration, supported by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. By fostering partnerships across the voluntary and community sectors, the Cluster works to deliver tangible benefits to the community. With nearly 65 groups working together, they are developing joint projects and action plans that enhance social engagement and overall wellbeing in the Larne area.
The Larne Area Community Cluster would like to thank everyone who participated in the Pop-Up Chatty Café, as well as the volunteers and staff who helped make the event a success. Together, we are making a difference in the fight against loneliness and building a more connected community in Larne.
