A new café which is safe space for those in crisis or suffering with mental health, has opened in Macclesfield.

The Weston Hub based on Earlsway is a relaxing, homely premises open seven days week to help people in crisis and need some support.

The new offering is the result of a partnership between Cheshire and Wirral Partnership and Cheshire East Council together with East Cheshire Housing Consortium.

Kim Blissett is the Weston Centre and Weston Hub manager.

"There has been a lot outcry for people who need support and somewhere they can go for help," she said.

"Sometimes people don't always need help off professionals, but need a friendly face, someone to talk to and a safe environment where they can supported. The support can range form anything from financial support, anxiety and stress. We will offer somewhere to have a chat and get a hot meal.

"We are the middle ground between services, we are here to offer a friendly face, listen and support to hopefully make that person feel better by the end of the day."

As well as talking or taking up refreshments, this third pillar of support has a range of other things they can offer.

This includes access to a computer, books, various classes avaliable to enrol in, in addition to an outside space for gardening.

"We hope once getting past that first crisis point, we can signpost to other things that can help going forward," added Kim.

"This project was always an idea in the background, but with the pandemic, this has pushed it along quicker.

"The feedback so far from both the commissioners, other professionals and those that have accessed the service has been extremely positive.

"The staff feel very rewarded to help people with a service that is one of only 2 in the North West and hopefully reaches out to those who have unmet needs.

"I see this as a grandma's house, a warm welcome, a friendly face and a home cooked meal. A place to feel safe.

"We are currently a team of four with varied experiences. The Centre offers capacity to up to 44 people."

The Weston Hub is located within The Weston Centre, Earlsway, Macclesfield, SK11 8RL. The Weston Hub is open form 10am – 10pm seven days per week.

The walk-in hours are 10-2 for self-referrals.

The space is free to use for four weeks in a row once you have made the initial contact.

Sean Boyle, of Cheshire and Wirral Partnership, added "Crisis cafes form a vital part of improving people experience of urgent mental health support."

To access The Weston Hub, you can call via the Crisis Line – 0800 145 6485.

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