THE first ‘friendship table’, an initiative to help people connect with others, has opened at a Crowthorne care home.

Friendship tables, an initative by Friendship Alliance, aims to tackle lonliness and improve mental and physical wellbeing of residents in Bracknell.

Hosted by Buckler’s Lodge care home, the free friendship table event takes place every second Friday of the month from 2pm to 4pm. 

There are currently more than 50 friendship tables as part of this initiative and the Friendship Table at Buckler’s Lodge is the first offering the opportunity in Crowthorne.

Maggie attended the first table at Buckler's Lodge, held on Friday, July 14, after enjoying her time at the Finchampstead Baptist Church's table.

She commented: "I didn't know what to expect, the instant I walked in we were welcomed, and the place was so welcoming, I will be back for the next Friendship Table."

The Friendship Alliance initiative is in partnership with The Link Visiting Scheme, Age UK Berkshire, Involve Community Services and the Wokingham Volunteer Centre.

Home manager at Buckler's Lodge care home, Debbie Rapson, said: “Through our work we understand that sometimes our social lives can become a bit smaller, particularly as we age. We also know how important friendship and connection are to keeping well.

“By bringing a Friendship Table to our local area, we want to offer anyone in our community who craves a bit more connection and laughter in their lives, a space where they will always feel welcome, and where they can get to know others in a relaxed way.”

The next Friendship Table at Buckler’s Lodge will be on August 11.