CAN is delighted to recognise the outstanding contributions of two remarkable individuals from our community, Anne and Lorien, finalists for the Inclusive Volunteering Award 2025. This award celebrates the dedication of individuals who ensure that volunteering opportunities are open and welcoming to all, regardless of their background or abilities. Anne and Lorien have both demonstrated an exceptional commitment to these principles.
Anne’s initiative: Fostering connection through The Chitter Chatter Club
Recognising the pervasive issue of loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic, Anne established the Chitter Chatter Club. Utilising her resources and skills, she created a network of supportive gatherings in various community settings, including local cafes and care homes. Expanding beyond these meetups, the initiative now encompasses social walks, notably in the Bournemouth and Poole areas, with a thriving Weymouth group organising regular communal lunches. The Chitter Chatter Club has had a profound positive impact, providing crucial support for individuals experiencing mental health challenges and those who felt isolated during the pandemic, all within an inclusive and welcoming environment.
Lorien: Championing mental health and empowerment
Lorien is an individual making a tangible difference in mental health. He volunteers his professional expertise as a mental health, mindfulness, and life skills coach, offering free talks to local charities to introduce beneficiaries to mindfulness tools and practices. He has created a substantial library of online resources, including the ‘A mindful minute’ and ‘Mindfulness Step by Step’ video series on YouTube, as well as collaborative ‘Conscious Together’ videos. He also hosts a weekly group session in Parkstone, providing a supportive space for individuals to explore life’s challenges through rational discussion and psychological frameworks. Lorien’s empathetic nature and empowering approach have a lasting impact, enabling individuals to overcome destructive patterns and re-engage with life with renewed confidence.
The recognition of Anne and Lorien as finalists for the Inclusive Volunteering Award is a testament to their remarkable dedication and the positive change they are instigating within our community. Their efforts serve as an inspiring reminder of the power of inclusive practices in fostering a more connected and supportive society.
