by Lisa Duffy, Service Manager
The Hub across the road from our learning centre in Chesterfield has been used for all sorts of things over the years and we have been trying to think how we can use it to help people locally.
When we chatted to people in the village they told us that there wasn’t anywhere to go for a cuppa. We knew it would be hard for us to create a café space on our own so looked around to see if anyone else would be interested in working together.
The shop next door
We spoke with Tokkie from the charity shop next door to the Hub. She said they used to offer a drink to people but they haven’t got the room anymore. She said
It’s such a shame we don’t do the teas and coffees anymore, people miss out on that.
We wondered if we could use our Hub space and volunteer alongside each other to make it work. And it has!
Volunteering at the café
Jordan is supported by MacIntyre, and volunteers at the café. She explains:
My main job is doing customer service and welcoming people. I have also been washing pots, totalling up how much we have made in a day. I count how many people. We had 32 people last week and we think there will be more when the kids go back to school in September. It’s a suggested donation for tea and coffee and cakes and it’s not about making money it’s just about people having a space to get together.
Jordan has had great feedback about what a lovely, caring person she is from people who come to the café at the hub.
I never used to feel like this before coming here. These guys have been my rock and I am so proud of myself, the progression I have made. I want this café to be a space where people can feel comfortable and talk about what’s happening for them. We are making a suggestion box so that people can tell us how to do better. We have some squishy stress balls under the counter for people. Before I came here I was in a dark place myself and I want to tell people, don’t bottle it up and don’t be afraid to tell people your concerns and use your voice. It feels brilliant to be helping other people.
Jordan
Pop in and see us
So if you are in the Holmewood area, please pop into the Hub café collaborative. You'll find us between MacIntyre and the Living Hope Charity Shop on Heath Road. You can be sure of a warm welcome!
