Free Cafe Fights Loneliness in Wiltshire Town

In the town of Highworth, Wiltshire, a new initiative has been launched to address the issue of loneliness. A free cafe, known as the Warm and Welcome Wednesday Cafe, opens its doors once a month to encourage community connections.

The cafe is a project of the Highworth Community Larder, an organization that redistributes surplus food to those in need. Operating on the third Wednesday of each month, the cafe offers visitors free drinks, cake, and most importantly, companionship. It's open from 09:30 to 11:00 BST at the Council Rooms on Gilberts Lane.

Beyond providing a social space, the cafe also serves as a resource center. Volunteers are available to offer advice on various issues, including financial matters. This multifaceted approach reflects the community's commitment to supporting its members.

The Community Larder, which started by distributing excess produce from local allotments, has grown significantly. From an initial 30 visitors, it now serves close to 100 people weekly, demonstrating the strong need for such community-driven initiatives.