Charity’s new cafe serving up a menu of mental health support
A mental health charity has launched a new cafe offering a place for the community to enjoy food and drink, as well as well-being activities which help support mental health.
Washington Mind has opened its new ‘Cafe Life’, which bosses hope will become a hub for families at its main base, the Life House, in Grasmere terrace, Columbia, Washington.
The dog-friendly cafe features indoor and outdoor settings and will host a weekly programme of well-being activitiestofurthersupportmental health in the community.
Chief executive officer at Washington Mind, Jacqui Reeves, said: “After all of the restrictions we have all faced over the last two years we have worked hard to keep our activities going and now want to offer our community a much needed resource to enjoy. We have refurbished our cafe and gardenintoagreatindoor/outdoorspacetomeetfriendsand get involved in 'Cafe Life'.
“Thisincludesaweeklyprogrammeofwellbeingactivities includingbrunch/lunch/afternoon/evening clubs, healthy eating courses and opportunities for social healthy-lifestyle activities. The space will also be available to hire for events.”
WashingtonMindhasbeen delivering mental health and
wellbeing support in the area since 1981 with the mission of working in partnership with the community to promote recovery and improve of mental health. Cafe Life is open to everyone, with Washington Mind encouraging all ages from toddlers
to pensioners to visit and takepartinvariousactivitiesor enjoy a bite to eat.
The Cafe Life Garden area will also include a play area for children and young people, as well as relaxation spaces for adults. As part of the cafe launch, Washington Mind is also on the look out for volunteers, offering student and work placements.
Jacqui added: “We are now ready to offer volunteering opportunities and student and work placements. Please get intouchifyouareinterestedin giving something back to your communityandlearningsome newskillsandgainingvaluable experiencealongtheway.Contact us on info@washingtonmind.org.uk”
WashingtonMindstretches back almost 40 years and offer services to support people in achieving their goals and work withinthecommunitytocombat the stigma around mental health. Cafe Life is open Monday to Thursday 9am-3pm and Friday 9am-1pm.