Award-winning Leeds wellbeing group struggles to stay open due to low funding

A wellbeing group in Leeds is struggling to keep it’s doors open due to a lack of funding.

Doodle Chat is a relaxed social group where people can come together to draw and talk with others.

The group is aimed at people who are lonely, who might struggle to socialise otherwise.

Local artist, Ed Thompson runs the event and pays for materials like pens and paper himself.

“I started Doodle Chat about three years ago as a way of addressing my own social isolation, and I learnt that through little drawings I could start opening up.

“It started with one table with myself and four pensioners and it’s grown to about 20 to 40 people, he added.”

Doodle Chat is currently funded by donations, and Left Bank also help by providing a space for free for the activity to take place.

Shannon, from Leeds, starting attending at the beginning of 2025:

“I suffer from depression and because of my disability I can’t get out a lot, so it’s a great place to meet people.”

Noah Roberts, a director said: “The relaxed drop-in environment is really helpful, so there’s no pressure to book a ticket or be here at a certain time, so people can come and go as they please.

“We’re pushing for fundraisers and art sales so that Doodle Chat can continue being free because we know it’s needed,” they added.

Source: Toby Almond | All Rights Reserved

Robin Stones, a director said: “Every week we see someone new and everyone comes from different backgrounds which we can share, it’s a completely non-judgemental space where people can connect.”

Last week, Doodle Chat won Health and Wellbeing Project of the year at the Compassionate City Awards.

“The thing that makes me happiest is seeing friendships form and people’s confidence grow. I’m very proud of the work we do,” said Ed.

Patrick, from Leeds said: “I have Parkinson’s and suffer from depression and anxiety, but activities like these help me get out the flat.”

Adam, a volunteer said: “There isn’t many spaces where people can hang out together beside pubs, and without places like this a lot of people would just be sat at home by themselves.”

Sessions take place at the Armley Community Hub on Tuesdays 2pm-6pm, and at Left Bank in Burley on Wednesdays 3pm-9pm.

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