SoundCafe offers safe creative spaces for individuals who are homeless, have experienced homelessness, are at risk of homelessness, socially isolated, or living in vulnerable housing in Leicester and Leicestershire. These spaces enable them to explore their creativity. SoundCafe welcomes individuals of all faiths and those with no religious affiliation. They have regular sessions throughout the week, held at St. Mary de Castro Church, Leicester.
In the past 6 months, the Community Development Team at Leicestershire Cares has been building a strong relationship with SoundCafe. Since our initial meeting in December, we have been able to support this wonderful charity and will continue to do so. As part of our festive Bags of Hope campaign, we donated bags filled with festive treats, chocolates, hats, and household items. It was heartwarming to meet the guests and witness the joy and excitement the bags brought.
The collaboration has continued to grow, with every team member supporting the guests. Our Community and Business Support Officer has arranged for business volunteers to share their time and expertise at an upcoming craft session. They will be offering an introduction to crocheting during one of the weekly creative sessions. This will take place over the next few months and promises to be an enlightening and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
The partnership has also led to the Neighbourhood Support Officer hosting a regular drop-in clinic. They provide benefit advice, housing support, energy awareness, assistance with understanding and changing energy tariffs, help with blue badge applications, and address housing repair queries. The first clinic was well received and will continue to be available on the first Wednesday of every month.
The support and guidance was very well received by those she talked to and I think as the word spreads more guests will take the opportunity to chat with her.
Rachel Griffiths: SoundCafe Director
As part of our Power to Change project and the growth and empowerment of our young people, our Youth and Development Support Officer recently introduced one of our participants to SoundCafe. Together, they led a podcast session, discussing individuals' care experiences and how things could improve going forward. The guests thoroughly enjoyed the session and embraced the opportunity to get involved. It also inspired the guests to interact afterwards, discussing the future topics that may be discussed.
The guests loved it and can't wait for her to come back - she really inspired the guests.
Rachel Griffiths: SoundCafe Director
With the changing seasons, the Community Development team have also donated Winter Warmer pack, and Easter Eggs as part of our Eggstravaganza compaign. These have all been gratefully received by the guests.
In support of SoundCafe’s annual football tournament, which will be held at St. Margaret’s Pastures on June 25th, Leicestershire Cares will be asking our Content Creative group to provide multimedia coverage and support. We are excited about the upcoming events and opportunities, and we look forward to collaborating on both existing and new projects.
A special 'thank you' to all of the team at Leicestershire Cares for their support of SoundCafe.
Rachel Griffiths: SoundCafe Director