Over 9 million people in the UK – that’s almost a fifth of the population – say they are always or often lonely (campaigntoendloneliness.org). So, in a bid to combat this and encourage people to talk to each other, Alexandra Hoskyn, set up the Chatty Café scheme, which takes place in numerous venues across the nation. It’s a simple premise – rock up to a participating café, look for a Chatter & Natter table and get talking. No matter your age, race, or gender – everyone is welcome. And the response has been huge, with chains from Costa to Waterstones getting on board with the project. The latest is Squire’s Garden Centres, with all 16 of their café bars taking part. Alexandra and Sarah Squire, chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres tell us more.