Twice a month, currently on the second and fourth Wednesday during the autumn, winter and spring, the Community Cafe at Saltcoats St Cuthbert’s provides a safe space for people to enjoy lunch and company. Offerings range from soup and sandwiches, hot meals, cake (plenty of choices) and a drink (non-alcoholic).

Why a Community Cafe?

It started because of Angela’s experience when her mum developed dementia. They went to memory cafes and there were maybe five to ten people there on a good day. It could be very challenging taking her mum out and about; her behaviour was sometimes off the wall. They felt alone and didn’t know where to get help, the problem made worse because Angela’s mother was a younger woman, didn’t fit into the elderly category and didn’t seem able to access the usual services. As her illness progressed, the family could no longer care for her at home but finding a care home was difficult, because she was under 65.

It was during this time that Angela came upon a number of people in the community who, because of one illness or another, felt isolated and didn’t have anyone to fight their corner; didn’t know where to get information or help. People’s lives can easily become just hospital appointments and isolation or sitting home alone.

One lady at the cafe said she had not eaten mince since her husband died as there was no point in making it for one. That alone is a good reason for the cafe’s existence.

As it becomes better known, it is hoped that more events can be linked into the day.