Ely Standard columnist Sara Ford shares details of a new mental health café that is launching at FRESH...

I’m very excited to tell you all about a brand new group starting at FRESH. in collaboration with Prosper Coffee Shop.

We are launching a monthly event called Friday Night Chats which is open to absolutely anyone who feels they just need some support or companionship.

Loneliness and poor mental health are huge factors for people and there are so many people within our community who are suffering in silence.

We invite you all to come along and join us for a cuppa and a catch up.

And don’t be put off by the thought of it being a counselling session, it’s certainly not therapy, and you have no obligation to talk about anything you’re not comfortable with.

The idea is that you can just come along, meet new people and have an evening surrounded by some kind souls.

As someone who has suffered with poor mental health for many years, I understand the importance of having a support network around you.

Often just seeing a friendly face or allowing yourself to voice any worries you're having can seriously alleviate some of the stress.

I really hope we can provide this for the people of Ely who need it.

On site we will have a number of Mental Health First Aiders, and volunteers who are specifically there to support anyone in need of help.

If you would like to volunteer or help out in any way, please get in touch with Claire on goodvibes@freshandwell.co.uk.

The session will be held on the third Friday of each month, starting May 17, from 6pm. 

You can pop in anytime before 8pm and be warmly welcomed by friendly faces at Prosper Coffee Shop, located within the FRESH. building at 16-18 Broad Street, Ely, CB74AH.

No need to book, just bring yourself along.