Help Keep Skipton’s Wellbeing Hub & Cafe Open – A Lifeline for Our Community
At Skipton Step Into Action (SSIA), our Wellbeing Hub & Cafe has been a vital service since 2022, providing a safe, warm, and welcoming space for individuals in our community who need it most. However, due to unexpected funding cuts, we are facing the possibility of reducing our hours from October 2024 unless we can raise £8,000 to keep the service running until the end of January while we seek long-term funding.
The Wellbeing Hub & Cafe is more than just a place for people to gather. It’s the only out-of-hours wellbeing provision for all adults in Craven, offering support during evenings and weekends when other services are closed. Many of our visitors rely on this space as the only opportunity in their week to enjoy a hot meal and the company of others.
What makes our service special?
SSIA was born out of the community spirit that flourished during the COVID-19 pandemic. Local people came together in a time of need, and from that collaboration, SSIA was created to help the most vulnerable in our town. We are proud to remain a community-led service, meaning that our friends—the very people who benefit from the Hub—play an active role in shaping what we offer. This ensures that we’re meeting the real needs of our community in a way that is inclusive and empowering.
In addition to being rooted in community support, we offer a range of activities that nurture both mental and emotional well-being. From creative sessions to social meet-ups over a meal, we provide opportunities for people to build confidence, form friendships, and improve their mental health. While our partnership with Pioneer Projects brings the added benefit of regular key worker support, SSIA’s strength lies in the ongoing commitment of local people helping one another—just as we did during the pandemic, and as we continue to do today.
H’s Story: A Journey of Comfort and Contribution
One of our regular visitors, H, came to the Wellbeing Hub & Cafe during a difficult time. “I still have bad days,” H shares, “sometimes I dip… but I always know I’ve got this group. It’s nice to come and meet new people and talk to them, about anything really.”
Over time, H’s involvement grew, and she became a volunteer, sharing her love for crafting with others and occasionally leading creative sessions. This story shows that spaces like ours aren’t just about receiving support—they’re about giving back and building a stronger community.
Why now?
With winter and Christmas fast approaching, the need for the Wellbeing Hub & Cafe becomes even more critical. For some, this is the only chance they have to come into town, where they might also support other local businesses. We don’t want anyone in our community to feel alone or without support, especially during the colder, lonelier months of the year.
How can you help?
We are asking the people of Skipton and beyond to rally together to help keep this essential service running. Whether you can spare £5 or £50, every donation will make a difference. Please visit our page to donate and learn more about how you can support us.
Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind, especially during the most challenging times of the year. Thank you for your generosity and support!
