The National Lottery turns 30 on 19 November 2024 and Chat Central got involved in the celebrations with a series of crossed finger selfies during their week of activities. The crossed finger is a symbol of the game but also a symbol of hope.

Pictured here, from left to right, the weekly litter picking group getting out and about; trying out lyrical dance with Beth Storie from Coventry City Council’s Adult Education team and meeting Sky Blues in the Community to hear about how to get involved in their community projects.

VAC’s Chat Central Project, which is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, has been helping Coventry people combat loneliness for the last three years. By trying out new experiences, becoming community active and gaining friendships along the way, over 80% of participants have reported feeling more self-confident in recently conducted research.

Watch this film for an insight into the positive impact that Chat Central has made on participants’ lives.