A friendly chat over a cup of coffee might seem like a small thing, but it can make a huge difference to someone’s day.
Across Wokingham borough, hundreds of residents are discovering new friendships, local activities and welcoming community spaces through the Friendship Alliance, a partnership led by The Link Visiting Scheme alongside Age UK Berkshire, Involve Community Services and Wokingham Volunteer Centre.
Together, they’re working to reduce loneliness and help people feel more connected to their communities.
One of our most popular initiatives is the growing network of Friendship Tables.
Hosted in cafés, libraries, churches and community venues across the borough, these are informal spaces where anyone can drop in, enjoy a drink and a chat, and meet new people.
There is no membership, no commitment and no pressure. Just a warm welcome and friendly conversation.
The borough now has more than 65 Friendship Table venues, providing opportunities to connect every day of the week.
As one local resident shared: “It’s not an exaggeration to say it’s changed my life.”
The Friendship Alliance also publishes a free newsletter packed with local events, activities, social groups, wellbeing opportunities and community news.
Whether you’re looking for something new to try, supporting an older relative, or simply want to know what’s happening locally, the newsletter is a great way to stay informed and connected.
Friendship and community matter at every age. If you’d like to find your nearest Friendship Table, explore local opportunities or sign up for the newsletter, visit www.linkvisiting.org/friendship-alliance.
Nobody in Wokingham borough should have to feel alone.
