What are Compassionate Cafés?

Our Compassionate Cafés are a part of our pioneering work in establishing Plymouth as a more Compassionate City. Our participating cafés are joining other aspects of this initiative that we are implementing within the community, such as Compassionate Schools and Workplaces, to make death and dying a less taboo subject so that those living with a life limiting illness, experiencing loss or bereavement are well supported and don’t feel isolated or alone.

A Compassionate Café is a community-led movement run by our Compassionate Friends to reach out to members of the community that are experiencing loss, bereavement or maybe affected by life limiting illness themselves. If anyone feels as though they need someone to talk to, they can sit down and chat over a cup of tea and cake. Compassionate Friends aren’t there to give official advice, but they are there to offer support, company and to lend a friendly ear.

If you are considering using a PA, you can find additional information and local availability below.

Looking for a Compassionate Café?

Take a look at our map to find a café near you. Simply enter your postcode and see the options available.

If you are interested in making your establishment a Compassionate Café, you first need to become a Compassionate Friend. You can sign up for your session here.

Compassionate people are members of the community who have attended an awareness session which builds their skills and confidence to have open, honest and sensitive conversations to help support those in their community who are at end of life or are experiencing loss. These unpaid Compassionate Friends have been trained by St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth but are not managed by the charity.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to COVID-19 opening times may be affected. Please contact the coordinator directly for up to date opening times.

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