A community hub is putting on weekly coffee mornings to help residents beat isolation.
Project St Thomas, the initiative organising by St Norbert’s Catholic Church, says the first three sessions have been a big success.
They take place from 10am to 12pm at the former methodist church on St Thomas’s Road, next door to St Norbert’s.
“We’re creating more than just a place for refreshments – we’re building a community hub where everyone feels comfortable and welcome,” said Tracey Carter, of Project St Thomas. “Whether you come alone or with friends, you’ll find a friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to make new connections.”
The initiative aims to address the growing concern of social isolation, which affects people of all ages in our community as well as simply providing an additional venue to meet with friends.
By providing a regular, accessible space for people to gather, Project St Thomas is looking to break the cycle of isolation that many experience.
“Social isolation has become such a prevalent issue in our society,” Fr Jim Burke explained.
“Something as simple as our weekly coffee mornings can make a significant difference in someone’s life, giving them a reason to get out of the house and interact with others in a relaxed, pressure-free environment.”
Beyond offering refreshments and companionship, the team is also available to provide information about other groups and services in the area.
Visitors can learn about Project St Thomas’s other initiatives, including their upcoming singing group and practical finance sessions.
As Project St Thomas expands its community offerings, it is actively seeking volunteers to support various aspects of its work.
Opportunities include serving at the weekly coffee mornings, collecting surplus food donations, assisting with the singing group or finance sessions, and helping with upcoming projects and initiatives.
It is particularly keen to hear from anyone who enjoys cooking or has catering experience but welcome all skills and levels of availability – even a few hours a month can make a huge difference to what they can offer the community.
Project St Thomas is dedicated to building stronger, more connected communities through accessible events and services.
Its initiatives focus on reducing isolation, providing practical support, and creating opportunities for meaningful social interaction.
The coffee mornings represents a cornerstone of this mission, offering a simple yet effective way to bring people together.
Anyone interested in volunteering or learning more about the coffee mornings can contact Tracey Carter, relationship manager on 07719 189528 or email project.stthomas@dioceseofnottingham.uk or simply drop in on any Tuesday between 10am and 12pm.