Meet the volunteers tackling loneliness in Derbyshire

Across Derbyshire, volunteers are helping to create stronger, more connected communities by bringing people together, reducing isolation and supporting wellbeing. 

At P3 Charity's Ripley Hub, one group has been doing exactly that for more than a decade. The Chill and Chat Group, established by volunteer Jack Douglas Howell, has grown into a thriving community space where people can meet others, build friendships and find support in a welcoming environment. 

Held every Friday, the group offers a place for local people to connect over conversation, games, activities and shared experiences. For many who attend, it provides an important sense of belonging and a chance to build confidence while forming meaningful relationships. 

The benefits of volunteering are well documented. According to the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NVCO), 77 per cent of volunteers say volunteering has had a positive impact on their mental health, while many also report feeling less lonely and more connected to their communities.  

Jack has been involved with the group since its early days and has helped shape it into the community it is today. 

"We talk, we chill and chat, we connect with our members, but we don't just sit there – we play games, we celebrate birthdays, we throw parties – but most of all we are each other's community," he says. 

The group welcomes people from all walks of life, including those experiencing loneliness, mental health challenges, disabilities or simply looking for social connection. Its success is built on the understanding that everyone has something valuable to contribute. 

Among the volunteer team is Tammy Sloan, who first attended P3 services before becoming a volunteer herself. Her experience reflects the way volunteering can create opportunities for people to give back while continuing to benefit from the support and connections around them. 

"With me having schizophrenia and depression, coming to the Friday group every week is a big help," Tammy explains. "It helps me break up the normal routines of life and breaks up the days." 

For both Jack and Tammy, volunteering has become about far more than giving up a few hours each week. Through the group, they have built lasting friendships, gained confidence and become part of a wider community that supports one another. 

The impact extends beyond the weekly sessions. Together, volunteers and group members organise celebrations, raise funds for local activities and enjoy trips across the region and beyond. From bowling and summer fairs to visits to York and Cadbury World, these shared experiences help strengthen the bonds that make the group special. 

Jack believes the group's success comes from valuing every individual who takes part. 

"Our group is so much more than volunteers and group members," he says. "Everybody in our group are companions." 

The story of Chill and Chat highlights the important role volunteers play across Derbyshire. By creating welcoming spaces, offering friendship and helping people feel connected, local volunteers are making a lasting difference to the lives of those around them. 

Volunteering also brings benefits to those who give their time. Many volunteers develop new skills, access training opportunities and gain confidence through their involvement.  

Jack's own journey demonstrates how volunteering can open doors. Over the years, he has completed a wide range of training courses, returned to education and gone on to qualify as a Level 3 Teaching Assistant. 

"I started out with no qualifications from school, finding P3 at 22 and training up for 10 years to finally get into the career and job I've always wanted," he says. 

For Tammy, the reward comes from supporting others and being part of a community that understands the value of connection. 

"If you want to bring something back to the community and help others, you should do volunteering," she says. 

Across Derbyshire, volunteers like Jack and Tammy demonstrate the power of community. Their dedication helps create spaces where people feel welcome, valued and connected, proving that sometimes a simple conversation can make a life-changing difference. 

To get involved, contact P3: [email protected] or visit their website www. p3charity.org/support-us/volunteer