Compassionate Café comes to Wigginton

Starting from 4 October 2023, the Compassionate Café will run on the first Wednesday of each month and provide a space for local people who have been affected by bereavement or any kind of loss to meet others by coming together for a cuppa and a chat. Each session is run by volunteers who are on hand to welcome and speak to attendees. Each session is informal in structure and guided by the needs of the people attending.

We have been running a number of successful Compassionate Cafés in Watford, Three Rivers and Hertsmere areas since December 2021 and are delighted to be bringing the model to Wigginton, Tring.  We are working in partnership with Wigginton Community Shop & Café and their volunteers have been trained up by our community engagement team to help provide a welcoming space for visitors.

Nicky, one of the volunteers at our Compassionate Café in West Watford says:

“Compassionate Cafés offer a great opportunity for us as volunteers to be able to provide comforting and reassuring company in a friendly environment to those who are trying to build up the confidence to venture out, meet with people again and feel a sense of inclusion after suffering a loss.”

Sally, the manager on the Wigginton Community Shop & Café, is excited about the launching the Compassionate Café and said:

“We’re delighted to be part of such an important project and host a compassionate café. This type of support will greatly benefit the local community.”

Alison May, Community Engagement Manager at Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care, spoke to Radio Dacorum about the new launch and what it means for local people. Listen to the full interview below.

To find out more email the team on compassion@renniegrovepeace.org or call 01923 330 330.