A new friendship café has opened at Ryde Village, giving residents a warm, welcoming space to meet, chat and feel more connected to their community.
The grand opening at Southern Housing’s extra care scheme proved a big success, with a strong turnout of residents celebrating the launch. The café serves hot drinks, snacks and sandwiches, with any small profit going directly into the residents’ fund to support future activities.
Scheme Manager Samantha Cronnelly said:
“I wanted to create a space where residents, their friends and family, could get together and form friendships. A lot of our residents live alone, so it’s nice for them to have somewhere to meet up and have a chat, with the feeling that they’re out in the community.”
Residents played a key role in setting up the café, choosing the name, designing the logo and helping to run it day-to-day.
For Steve, who previously worked in catering, volunteering has been a welcome focus.
“I moved into Ryde Village in March and wanted to stay active, even though I’ve had some health challenges. Helping in the café gives me the chance to mix with people and keep busy.”
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New resident Jeanette said the café has already made a positive difference.
“It’s really nice to come and have a hot drink with others, instead of sitting in your flat by yourself.”
The café is already proving popular, with plans to involve neighbours at Woodland View as the project grows.
