Monday 5th October saw the launch of the Teddington Community Café at St Peter and St Paul’s Church in Church Road. It was a special day for the volunteer team, following months of preparation, and for its customers, who appreciated the warm welcome, quality hot and cold drinks and delicious cakes.

Initiated by Teddington Parish, in partnership with the two local NHS Primary Care Networks and disability charities Ruils and Richmond Aid, the café aims to provide a calm and positive atmosphere where those who feel isolated
or anxious can find sanctuary, enjoy a friendly chat and find out about local community activities and services,
including social prescribing.

Sadly, after two successful afternoon sessions, the café was forced to close in its current form due to the increased
government restrictions on social mixing. We are now looking at new ways to continue to run a café for those who are feeling lonely or anxious, which complies with the increased government restrictions. As soon as we have a plan, we will let you know! We hope to still run the café weekly, on Monday afternoons, from 1.30pm at St Peter and St Paul’s Church. Covid-secure measures and track and trace system will be in place.

When it reopens, we will be looking for volunteers to contribute home-made cakes or biscuits (easy to handle in portions of 12-15). If you are willing to join a baking rota, please email Karin on karinmay@hotmail.com.