Irlam & Cadishead Friends
Friendship groups in Irlam & Cadishead – meet, connect, belong.
The Chatty Cafe Scheme
It’s a UK-based non-profit initiative to reduce loneliness and social isolation by encouraging people to talk to each other. The concept is very simple: create more opportunities for friendly, casual conversations in everyday places.
About us
We'd like to introduce you to Kevin Wilkinson, who hosts our very own Chatty Café from the Community Room, Tesco Irlam.
Pop in for a brew, share some stories, or read a book from our bookcase. Pop along to a session — you never know who you might meet.
If you would like to volunteer to help host a Chatter & Natter table at this venue, apply here.
Simple, friendly chats
No pressure, no agenda — just normal conversation in normal places.
Open to anyone 18+
Not just older people — anyone feeling a bit disconnected is welcome.
Small moments matter
Even a short 5-minute chat can lift mood and confidence.
The 3 main things we do in Irlam
Chatter & Natter tables (in Irlam venues)
Across Irlam, cafés, libraries, pubs, hospitals and other venues set aside a designated table. If you sit there, it means you’re open to chatting with others. Anyone in Irlam can join — even for a quick 5-minute chat. Often supported by local volunteers who help start conversations. Goal: Make it normal and easy to talk to strangers in a safe, friendly space right here in Irlam.
Coffee mornings & drop-ins
Regular get-togethers at local venues where anyone can pop in for a cuppa and a chat. No booking needed — just turn up. Volunteers welcome newcomers and help everyone feel included. Goal: Give people in Irlam a friendly, low-pressure way to meet others and feel part of the community.
Befriending & regular check-ins
Volunteers are matched with someone who’d like a bit of company or a regular chat. That might be a weekly phone call, a cuppa at home, or a short walk together — whatever suits both. Goal: Offer consistent, friendly contact for people who are isolated or would just like someone to talk to.
What problem it’s trying to solve
The scheme targets loneliness, social isolation, and lack of everyday human interaction. Even small things like living alone, moving to a new area, or working remotely can lead to people going days without conversation.
Why it works
The scheme is deliberately simple and low-cost: no therapy or formal structure, just normal conversation in normal places. Even a short chat can improve mood, confidence, and sense of belonging.
Who it's for
Anyone over 18 — not just elderly people. Includes people living alone, new parents, remote workers, and anyone feeling a bit disconnected.
Who it’s for
Anyone over 18 — not just elderly people. Includes people living alone, new parents, remote workers, and anyone feeling a bit disconnected.
We’re part of The Chatty Cafe Scheme.
Our meet-ups at the café are part of this scheme. Find out more at thechattycafescheme.co.uk.
Meet-ups
Drop in – no need to book. Meet in Tesco community room.
Where: Tesco Irlam Community Centre — Meet in Tesco community room
Fairhills Industrial Estate, Woodrow Way, Irlam, Manchester M44 6BL
When:
- Monday 10:00–12:00
- Sunday 13:00–15:00