Wellbeing hub aims to become 'beacon of hope'

Mayor of Lowestoft Nasima Begum cuts the ribbon at the opening of the hub alongside Emma Ratzer from Access Community Trust, hub manager Tracey McFee and Sarah Hancock from Sizewell C

A new wellbeing centre has opened with the aim of helping vulnerable people and becoming a beacon of hope for the community.

Sam's Café, which was started in 2015 by Access Community Trust, has spearheaded a project to transform the three-storey premises into a larger hub offering a wider range of services.

The charity's centre in Bevan Street East in Lowestoft, Suffolk, will host employment and training workshops, mental health support, substance misuse assistance, policing engagement sessions, and guidance on benefits and household budgeting.

Organisers say the guiding principle will be: "If we can’t help you, we will introduce you to someone who can."

Ahead of the opening ceremony at Sam's Cafe, which will offer a wide range of services

The mayor of Lowestoft, Nasima Begum, cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony of the hub on Thursday alongside Emma Ratzer from Access Community Trust, Sarah Hancock from Sizewell C, which donated a grant, and hub manager Tracey McFee.

Ms McFee said following the expansion she wanted the centre to become a "beacon of hope for individuals, families, and the local community seeking support or guidance".

"Sam's is, and has always been, about community because not only is it a great café, it's also a safe space that is non-judgemental and compassionate.

"Helping others in their time of need is vital, and we work with many local partners to do just that. Our team views seeking help as a sign of strength, and we stand tall, ready to assist."

The new centre will include Thrive employment and training services, Dual Diagnosis support, regular community policing engagement sessions, safe client meeting spaces, and it will also be a meeting point for weekly wellbeing walks.

The project has received a grant from Sizewell C to support the day-to-day running costs of the enhanced service for the next two years.

Community Access Trust said Sam's Café had provided direct support to more than 1,000 people and provided more than 9,000 free meals.

The initial Cost of Living and Wellbeing Event will be held on 25 September and will include representatives from local organisations and services who can offer advice and highlight what community support is available to those in need this autumn.