Team & Governance

Where do you host Empty Chairs?

I don’t really have one regular Empty Chairs table anymore. I’ve hosted in different towns and cities since we started, and I tend to go wherever I think I can be most useful. But Southend and Essex are home, so there’s a good chance you’ll find me hosting there.

Why did you get involved with Empty Chairs?

Empty Chairs started after my best friend, Rob, died by suicide in November 2025. Afterwards I kept thinking about how many people spend their evenings alone, and how hard it can be to admit that you’re lonely or just want some company. I wanted to make being around other people as easy and ordinary as possible.

What keeps me going is seeing people turn up for complete strangers, week after week, knowing a table somewhere might make someone’s day feel a little less lonely.

Where do you host Empty Chairs?

I’m based in Tooting, SW London, and have hosted around there. We have lots of hosts in the nearby area, so I also try and drop into their events regularly!

Why did you get involved with Empty Chairs?

I was inspired by how many people were ready to say: I’ll do something to make anyone who needs it feel a little bit less lonely!

Where do you host Empty Chairs?

Shrewsbury :)

Why did you get involved with Empty Chairs?

I was moved by hearing of Rob’s story and wanted to help any way I can.

Where do you host Empty Chairs?

Hosted in Bristol. Now tend to host in Malvern and Tewkesbury, but also like to do pop-up ones if I’m away!

Why did you get involved with Empty Chairs?

I’ve lost several male friends to suicide, so when I heard about Empty Chairs and Dean’s story I needed to get involved. Holding space for connection is so important, and being able to provide that for anyone that might need it is a real privilege.

Where do you host Empty Chairs?

I’m originally from the Isle of Man but am now based in Streatham, SW London. Happily, there are lots of hosts running events in both places.

Why did you get involved with Empty Chairs?

I’m a charities and not-for-profit lawyer, so when James Hutt asked me in January 2026 to have a coffee with his mate Dean and talk through what Empty Chairs might become, I said yes as a favour. I came away moved. Dean’s determination to use his grief for good — for Rob — stayed with me, and even at that early stage, it was clear that Empty Chairs answered a real need. It’s been a joy to help ever since.

Where do you host Empty Chairs?

I host in Lanzarote.

Why did you get involved with Empty Chairs?

I got involved with Empty Chairs as I have strong views about social isolation and mental health, after family went through difficult times and from seeing first-hand how hard support can be to come by when I was working as an emergency call handler back home. I believe everyone should have the space to feel seen and be listened to, and Empty Chairs is the perfect idea for that!

Why did you get involved with Empty Chairs?

Loneliness is a massive epidemic amongst young and old people. When I first heard the reason behind why Empty Chairs was created, it truly touched me personally and broke my heart. I thought, if I could help one person not to feel that way, then I want to help in any way I can.

Where do you host Empty Chairs?

I host in Newbury.

Why did you get involved with Empty Chairs?

I got involved because something in Dean’s posts really connected with me. Having been through a dark period myself, I wished that Empty Chairs had been around when I needed it. So I want to provide that space for anyone who needs it, and I think it gives me just as much as it gives others.

Where do you host Empty Chairs?

I host in Maylands, Western Australia.

Why did you get involved with Empty Chairs?

I volunteer for Empty Chairs as the initiative rang so close to home to me — there are far too many empty chairs with my loved ones. I just want to help make this world a better place, be an ear, a support, just help someone feel less lonely. There are enough people in this world that no one should ever have to feel alone. Plus I get to volunteer with a great team, meet lots of new people, support our incredible hosts and help the great pub culture grow again.

Why did you get involved with Empty Chairs?

I got involved with Empty Chairs because I know firsthand how vital genuine connection and community are. With loneliness at epidemic levels across the UK, we all have a role to play in looking out for one another and bringing people together ultimately makes all our communities happier and healthier.

Where do you host Empty Chairs?

I host in Blyth, Northumberland.

Why did you get involved with Empty Chairs?

I was listening to the radio whilst working and heard a discussion about Empty Chairs, and knew I needed to be involved. I emailed that day and started soon after.