A community cafe project has been launched in Pelsall, which aims to bring people together and help them improve their health and wellbeing.
The Pelsall Community Connections Cafe (Super Seniors) meets every Monday afternoon at the village’s community centre in Station Road and as well as being an opportunity to get to meet up with other people, it will host quizzes, invite special guests and hold informative talks.
Led by community volunteer facilitator Sharon Pedley, the idea was the brainchild of the centre’s trustees who wanted to organise a regular event for people who want to venture out again after a challenging 18 months.
The sessions focus on wellbeing and are particularly suited to people who have felt isolated because their families do not live close by or who have been bereaved, but are open to anyone who want to meet new friends.
“Pelsall has such a strong community feel and the centre wanted to do something to encourage people to get together now that many of the restrictions are lifted,” she said.
“It’s all based around improving mental health and wellbeing, so while it isn’t a ‘knit and natter’ session, it’s a great way for people to get their confidence back. The response has already been very good.”
The cafe started in July and is already attracting about a dozen attendees, and is becoming more popular every week.
Speakers have been pencilled in for over the next few weeks, including a mindful and wellness expert, a Reiki practitioner, and a duo who will sing some classic songs. A poet has also been invited who will talk about how poetry can help to ease anxiety.
Other events will include local history talks, quizzes and a talk from a Neighbourhood Watch organiser, who will discuss how people can keep themselves safe in their homes and outside.
Sharon said the cafe is open to men and women aged 40 and over who want to meet new friends in a friendly and safe environment. Although most of those attending so far have been local, or from nearby Brownhills and Aldridge, it is open to anyone who would like to attend.
The project is to run for six months, but she said it will be extended if there is demand for it.
The cost of the cafe session, which takes place every Monday from 1-3pm, is £1.50, which covers the cost of cakes, biscuits and unlimited tea and coffee.
For more information, contact Sharon on 07502 679882.