The premise is straightforward: a volunteer host wears bright orange at a pub or bar, sets up extra chairs, and welcomes any stranger who wants to join them.
In a city where 35% of Londoners feel lonely, finding new ways to connect can be difficult. But Dean, the founder of this initiative, launched Empty Chairs to invite anyone wanting company to sit down and talk to tackle the loneliness problem.
A tribute to a friend
The project began as a personal response to tragedy. At the end of last year, Dean lost his best friend, Rob, to suicide. Struggling with the resulting grief, Dean decided to channel his energy into reaching people who might be feeling isolated.
“I was kind of sat around thinking, I either lay on my bathroom floor for the rest of my life, or I go out and do something to try and help other people,” Dean said. Because he and Rob often went to the pub for a pint, Dean figured a local bar would be the most natural environment to engage with those who might need someone to talk to.
From London to 15 countries
What started as a single table has rapidly scaled into a widespread network. Empty Chairs now averages 70 events a week, supported by over 1,000 hosts. The weekly gatherings have spread beyond London, reaching across the UK and into 15 different countries.
“There’s no pressure to talk about anything, there’s no pressure to spend money,” Dean noted. The primary goal is simply to provide a space for connection.
Reflecting on the project’s rapid growth, Dean has seen two consistent themes: an eagerness for connection and the generosity of strangers. He notes that many people are actively looking for a community and a place to meet others.
Those looking to find an open seat or check the weekly schedule can locate upcoming gatherings via the Empty Chairs Instagram account.
