Our project will transform part of an old factory located next to a 19th century heritage mill into a community cafe. The premises is currently a blank canvas and is currently undergoing renovations in order to bring it up to a standard so it can be opened to the local community.
An accessible and aesthetically pleasing entrance way to the cafe is desperately needed in order to make the cafe inclusive to all.
Research shows there is a strong desire for this new venture which will cater for local businesses, the general public, and play host to wellbeing groups. The cafe will be looking to open its doors in the next 6-8 weeks.
In August 2024, we hosted a 'meet and greet' day where a survey was conducted in-house as well as being available online. Many discussions took place and from feedback given to us and evident from the survey results, a community cafe is very much needed in the local area.
Since the open day, discussions with various organisations, local authorities, individuals and groups, we will be looking to offer the cafe as a central hub for a wellbeing walking group, friendship meet-up groups, arts and crafts workshops, dementia and other health support groups and a scooter club.
We will also be looking to offer a comprehensive volunteer and work experience programme for assisting and working at the cafe group and plan on being a drop-off point for food bank parcels in collaboration with a local food bank charity in Kidderminster.
The impact of the cafe will be significant as it will bring people from all walks of life together and build a real sense of community. The activities that will be on offer will aim to improve mental wellbeing, reduce isolation and strengthen community bonds. Our volunteer and work experience programmes will equip individuals with valuable skills to improve their employment prospects.
Being Kidderminster born and living here all my life, there’s nothing else like this in the local area with nearby coffee shops all located in the town centre and not offering the community events we intend to do.
I believe my personality, passion for baking, past experiences working as an activities co-ordinator with both elderly and vulnerable adults, give me all the skills set to make this is a success.
We will continuously gather feedback to shape future initiatives, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our community.