Scheme to beat social isolation

HALTON residents are being urged to sit down for a chat as Halton Borough Council introduce a new ‘Chatty Chairs’ initiative.

The council’s Community Connectors want the people of Halton to know that there is always somewhere to go and meet and talk to people, and hope that the introduction of Chatty Chairs will emphasise this.

A council spokesman said: “Sometimes it seems like people are so busy rushing by or on their phones that people just don’t have the time to sit and talk anymore.

“Well Halton Borough Council’s Community Connectors hope to change that!”

“Chatty Chairs will be areas to sit out in the community, in places like parks, cafes, shopping areas, community centres and more, where people can take a seat to show that they are happy for others to come and chat with them.”

“When you are sat on one of our Chatty Chairs, you are showing other community members that you’re happy to be joined for a chat.

”But we need businesses to volunteer to put one in public places.”

The chairs will be set up in several venues, such as libraries and community centres from next week, but the council says that it needs more public places are to sign up.

Those who do sign up will be featured in a special map showing the locations, which will be available on Facebook.

Halton Borough Council’s executive board member for health and wellbeing, Councillor Marie Wright, said: ”The scheme has been set up to help to tackle social isolation and create more community spirit here in Halton; helping people to get to know others in their community.

“We welcome anyone to take a seat at our Chatty Chairs, we are also looking for new businesses and establishments in Halton who want to sign up and set up their own Chatty Chairs. Please contact us for free set up pack.“

To find out where the Chatty Chairs are, keep up to date on the Halton-CommunityConnectors Facebook page.