Community Project of the Year, sponsored by Siren Craft Brew, winner: Link Thursdays
SPONSORED by Siren Craft Brew, Community Project of the Year is awarded to a welcoming community space designed to support anyone feeling lonely or isolated.
Link Thursdays provides cakes and refreshments, friendly conversation and inclusive activities within a dementia-friendly environment.
Held at All Saints Church, Wokingham, it also welcomes local childminders, and hosts sessions led by Creative Mojo and Blandy & Blandy solicitors, as well as chair yoga and other creative initiatives to help tackle loneliness.
Since opening in 2023, the café has welcomed dozens of regular attendees, fostered new friendships, and become a safe and inclusive space for all ages.
Receiving the award at the Wokingham Community Awards were Link volunteers Jo, Sue and Link activities and events coordinator Beth.
“It’s a privilege to be part of such a wonderful organisation, and I enjoy every minute of it,” said Jo.
“It’s amazing to see people’s faces light up when they come in on Thursday and see a friendly group of people,” said Sue.
“It’s so uplifting for everyone.”
Jo agreed: “It’s become a family.
“People soon settle in and the family is growing.
“We’re beginning to run out of space, and having to pull out more chairs and tables for newcomers.
“But of course, there’s space for all in the All Saints SpaceForAll cafe.
“It’s really established now, and becoming successful.”
Often couples come along to Link Thursdays – one of whom has dementia – for coffee, to meet other people, in a space where they feel safe.
“We’d like to thank all the volunteers and visitors who make Link Thursdays so wonderful every week,” said Beth.
“This award will have pride of place and everyone is going to be so delighted that we’ve won.”
For information, visit: linkvisiting.org and sirencraftbrew.com
