As a not for profit charity, We have been trialling a super friendly accessible coffee shop on site for residents, guests, staff and wider community. extremely well received during trial & made a surplus despite being by donation only. Used by approx 90 people on the one day a week. Now seeking to create permanent coffee shop open several days a week to benefit all. Also creates 3 employed p/t vacancies and volunteers with special needs welcomed. Great work experience opportunity. We are seeking funding to help with commissioning & establishing by re-purposing suitable existing space, wheelchair accessability, creating suitable kitchen & extra equipment needed, dressing and furnishing coffee shop. Help with marketing materials also appreciated. Aim to reach more people by opening more days. Also promotes Ifield Parks' range of not for profit care facilities in a relaxed, no obligation manner.
What we'll deliver:
- re-purpose an existing large room for coffee shop & fit out suitably
- create wheelchair accessible user friendly space
- create small outside seating area for nice weather
- offer warm welcome to all without judgement & nice food compliant with Food safety requirements
- Refreshments by donation only so super affordable for all
- Open at least three days per week incl Saturday
- Create employment three days per week for coffee shop assistant
- Create Volunteer/work experience opportunity - special needs applicants will be encouraged
Why it's a great idea:
We have proved with 6 month trial that this is very well supported & utilised - great feedback & community support shown. We need more space and opportunity to reach more people. Offers elderly, disabled, dementia & wheelchair users an opportunity to socialise in a safe and supportive environment with trained and understanding staff. It offers local employment and volunteer opportunities. It markets our care & nursing (not for profit charitable) business in a non threatening way to Crawley community.
Charges are affordable for all by donation.
Steps to get it done:
- Identify suitable space(s) (completed)
- create new kitchen solely for coffee shop (underway)
- re-purpose separate adjoining space to create coffee shop (underway)
- Purchase equipment needed to facilitate kitchen
- purchase new furniture needed to furnish coffee shop
- create wheelchair access ramp & wide fit doorway (underway)
- Create small outdoor patio with seating & plants
Residents and Staff bake and donate the cakes we use. We plan to extend menu from tea coffee and lots of cakes to include soup, toasted sandwiches & other light snacks to appeal to wider client base.
