‘Talking Table’ scheme to tackle loneliness and isolation comes to Liverpool
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Located in the Imagine More café at Strawberry Field, in Woolton, there is a dedicated table, distinctively marked with a sign, for people to sit at and either be joined by a member of the public or someone from The Salvation Army’s onsite team of officers, staff and volunteers.
Dubbed the ‘Talking Table’, the initiative has been created to tackle loneliness and isolation, factors that can be accelerated by the start of a new year.
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Hide AdSalvation Army officer, Major Kathleen Versfeld, Mission Director at Strawberry Field, said: “In Liverpool we love to talk, and often do to complete strangers in the lift, on the bus, or at the shops. Here at Strawberry Field, we offer a safe, warm, comfortable space for people who long for human connection but wouldn’t otherwise find it.

“In truth, I hope that every table at Strawberry Field is a talking table, where visitors are warmly greeted by our staff and trainees and made to feel instantly at home no matter how far or short the journey to get to us. For some, sadly, this may be the only opportunity in the day to socialise with others. The ‘talking table’ sign is an invitation to first-timers or those on their own to take a seat. We have time to talk. It’s good to talk!
“The initiative is a gentle way of encouraging strangers to become friends, a means by which our supporters can get to know each other better, and above all to help others fight the daily battle against loneliness.
“We know that simply having a chat can brighten someone’s day, and we’re passionate about the fact that no one has to be lonely. Being open every day means that there is always someone willing to listen. The table itself has become a talking point for visitors, who often ask about it, and love the idea. The table looks out onto the peaceful gardens of Strawberry Field, so that any pauses in conversation allow space for contemplation of the beautiful view and even, perhaps, a conversation with the Creator himself!”
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Hide AdThe Imagine More café is open seven days a week from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm with the ‘Talking Table’ in operation during these times, in a location that was immortalised by John Lennon in The Beatles' hit, ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’.
For more information about Strawberry Field, and to donate to the work it does with vulnerable young adults with barriers to employment, please visit www.strawberryfield.salvationarmy.org.uk/