Back in January 2022, News OnTheWight reported on the launch of a new inclusion hub in Ventnor, The Better Days Cafe.
The cafe, serving fresh homemade soups, sandwiches, cakes and drinks opened its doors on 19th February and has been a roaring success since.
The brainchild of Kirsty Chapman, this not-for-profit, beautifully decked out haven, offers a very warm welcome to all. A huge amount of hard work has gone into creating the inviting space where egos and judgement are left at the door.
Let’s ditch the stigma
So it was heartbreaking for Kirsty to overhear someone on the street on Saturday say,
“Oh I don’t think we should go in that cafe, its staffed by people with mental health.”
The idea of the Better Days Cafe came from wanting to create a safe space, offering training and work experience for those who feel excluded, as well as providing vital mental health support.
It is run by volunteers, who all give up their time in order to support others.
Some mental health statistics
Poor mental health can affect any one of us, at any time.
Each year in England, 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem of some sort.
And in any given week, 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem (like anxiety or depression).
Those having suicidal thoughts
More seriously than that, according to a 2014 study (which may mean the numbers are now much higher), over the course of someone’s lifetime:
- 1 in 5 people have suicidal thoughts
- 1 in 14 people self-harm
- 1 in 15 people attempt suicide
Helping to make a difference
What those with mental health issues (and their families) need from society is compassion, understanding and a lack of judgement.
The Better Days Cafe is run by kind, community-minded volunteers, helping to make a difference for others.
Kirsty says,
“Pop in for a cuppa, or some lunch and you will be pleasantly surprised.”
Where and when
The Better Days Cafe is open 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday.
It can be found at 64 High Street, Ventnor PO38 1LT (opposite the Central Car Park, next to Tesco Express).
On your TV screens
You can find out more about the Cafe and the great work going on there by tuning into ITV Meridian News from 6pm tonight (Monday 7th March).
Update: The segment wasn’t shown on Monday night (schedules can change at the last minute) so may be shown another day this week.
Visit the Better Days Cafe Social Media Page for the latest news.
Statistics sourced from Mind.
