Compassionate Café Ivybridge

09/10/2026

Tomorrow (Saturday 10th October) is World Mental Health Day.

When bereavement and grief becomes part of our reality, it can result in pain, and a huge shift to our mental wellbeing.

If this is something you are living with, and you would like support from others who listen, share and understand what you're going through, please join us tomorrow at the Compassionate Cafe, Chapel Place Ivybridge .

If you prefer to meet someone outside before you walk in, drop us a note and one of our volunteers will do exactly that.

There is no charge (donations for teas and coffee optional), and no pressure. Anyone who comes to spend the morning with us simply turns up, is made a cuppa (just how they like it), and then they sit in small groups and chat - not always about their grief or their loved one. But all have done that at some point. And when talking about their memories, when anniversaries come around, or a story brings up emotions, that emotion is welcome. This is a safe space to feel however you feel.

The group is mixed - men, women, various ages, and different situations. All are there because of someone they lost, and love very much.

Please join us if this is something you think would help.

Saturday 10th October, 10am to 12 noon (arrive whenever works for you and stay as long as you like).

05/04/2026

02/04/2026

🧡What actually happens at the Compassionate Café? 🧡

We know that coming along to something new - especially something like a “Compassionate Café” - might feel a bit daunting. If you're grieving, caring for someone, living with loss, or simply feeling isolated, walking into a room of people you don’t know can feel like a big step.

So here’s what actually happens…

When you arrive, a volunteer will welcome you with a cuppa and a gentle chat - nothing formal, just a check-in to help you feel at ease. You can stay one-to-one if you prefer, or join the table where a small group often gathers.

Sometimes the conversation is light - about the weather, local news, day-to-day things. Sometimes someone might mention a loved one they’ve lost or share a memory. And sometimes, someone might shed a tear or more. That’s okay too. Those moments are important, and we simply allow the feelings to be there - without judgement, without needing to fix anything.

There’s no expectation to share anything personal. Some people come just to sit quietly in a space where they feel understood. Others come because it’s the only time that week they’ll be around people who truly 'get it'.

There are usually 4 or 5 volunteers and a handful of guests - some weeks it’s 2 or 3, other times closer to 10, and we have had more. It is a mixed group of people. There are always teas, coffees and biscuits. Conversations shift and settle naturally, and the room adapts to what’s needed.

Some people might leave a small donation as they leave, however, there is no expectation for that at all.

☕ The next Compassionate Cafés will take place on Saturday 11th and Saturday 25th of April (always the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month)
🕙 10 a.m. – 12 noon
📍 Chapel Place, Ivybridge (just off Fore Street)

No need to book. Just come as you are.

💬 If you’d like someone to meet you outside so you don’t have to walk in alone, just message us here on Facebook. We’re happy to help.

You’re not alone. And you’re always welcome.🧡

03/12/2025

28/11/2025

We are here at Chapel Place Ivybridge today for the Ivybridge Christmas Festival! Come and enjoy a hot fruit punch or a cuppa and cake, plus lots of lovely fun and games.
We'd love to chat if you're interested in the Compassionate Cafe or becoming a volunteer.

Update: unfortunately this didnt post due to signal issues, so it is almost over now! Lovely to see everyone who popped into Chapel Place! Especially those who haven't been in before. Such a beautiful community building for the people of Ivybridge, and a lovely evening for all involved.