Chat Time at Radford House

I called in to see Suzy Humphries at Radford House one Tuesday morning. She was running the very first Chat Time session that morning and I helped to get the room ready, helping put out the table covers, setting up cups and mugs. I have never looked back.

There are tea, coffee, juice, biscuits and crisps available. There’s no charge but there is a box for donations – when we remember to put it out! You can walk in on your own and will be given a seat and a drink. Biscuits are on the tables. There is no pressure to speak, just sit and take it in but someone will speak to you. You can move around, sit elsewhere if you like, you are sure to find someone to chat to.

The first day I came along there were six visitors, this week was the most we have ever had – 23. Wow!

Suzy is a wonderful organiser and tries to talk with all our visitors, looking for ideas of what to do, interesting speakers and who to ask to talk to us.

We have had talks from many interesting people: including on how to relax; do yoga; how to become Mayor. Everyone has something of interest to tell us.

There have been two young ladies with children from Kazakhstan who lived within a couple of miles of each other but did not meet till they came to Chat. One has since moved away but the other one still comes as part of our community.

We have a lady who collects seeds from the hedgerows and brings them for anyone who would like to add them to their garden.

We had a morning of asking anyone to bring food (snacks) from their region or country. There was a wonderful array of different foods and very little was left by the people who came that day!

I have met people I know who come and bring friends. I have made friends while I have been volunteering. I love the easy atmosphere, and the chats with many people for a few minutes or longer.

Chat Time is held at Radford House, (The old Fire Station), 18-20 Effingham Street, CT11 9AT on Tuesdays 10:30am to 1pm. See you there!

Written by:
Mayor of Ramsgate
Councillor Pat Moore, Newington Ward