A community hub run by Truro City Council has been so successful, it has expanded to operate for an extra day each week.

Previously open on Wednesdays at Malabar Community Centre and Fridays at the Moresk Centre, The Sunshine Café has partnered with Truro Nourish Hub to add Monday afternoons at the Moresk Centre to its line-up.

The Sunshine Café was borne out of the challenges raised by the cost-of-living crisis, and was initially named Warm Welcome due to its provision of a heated space at a time of skyrocketing utility bills.

Today, its remit has broadened to help residents address issues such as health and social isolation. As well as a cup of tea and a chat (and hot meals at The Moresk Centre), visitors have access to information and advice, and staff help to arrange support services when required.

The volunteer-run Malabar hub hosts a weekly food club run by the New Beginning Community Association (NBCA) and Community Helping All of Society (CHAOS), distributing surplus goods from supermarkets and freshly picked vegetables from Glean Cornwall.

The hubs also deliver activities to improve social, physical and mental wellbeing. These include arts and crafts sessions, strength and coordination training to prevent falls, wellbeing walks, healthy eating guidance, woodcarving for mindfulness and more.

One participant said: “As a carer for my disabled son, I don’t have much time to myself. The centre gets me out of my house and helps with my mental and emotional health.”

Community Development Officer Damien Richards said: “The cafes appear to be having a remarkable impact, particularly on people’s mental health. I do evaluations every month, and reading some of the good-news stories is so nice. It’s making a real difference to people’s lives.”

For more information about the Sunshine Café and other community initiatives, call 01872 274766 or email [email protected]