Today was a bit of a funny day for me, my son started his first full day of school. And I found myself not wanting to go home, so I decided I would go somewhere new and today I chose creative hearts in Littlehampton. I must say that the cafe is very affordable for food and drink, it was only £1 for my cup of tea and had I not been on a diet the cake was very tempting at only £1.50 to £2.50.
This is a wonderful community cafe that has come about from some lovely ladies that have taken this massive project on decided they couldn't see such a beautiful building go into such disrepair as it was such an amazing space therefore creative hearts was born.
As this is a community project they had to fund everything themselves with donations and fundraising to create a stunning space for crafters and lovers of cake and tea.
As I entered the building I was greeted by a warm and comfortable fun and crafty environment. There was a real diversity and people from all ages and backgrounds enjoying the space, there is even a grand piano and one of their regular customers came in and started playing, it was amazing to witness people being able to share their creativity.
The staff were super helpful and even showed me around the building as they have several spaces for rent from office space to craft workshops spaces.
There was so much damage when they moved in and so much work to be done from repaired cracks and leaks, cleaned mould, and redecorated extensively as the building had been boarded up for two years, vandals had smashed windows and fittings and also the kitchen was flooded for who knows how long.
They had plan to open in May 2020, but this was delayed by Covid 19, as many things were. Although this was a small setback it turned out to be a blessing as a crack appeared in the floor and another leak from the roof, this gave them the extra time to get the work finished from the help of the community.
Success, they have now created a beautiful garden, 2 conference rooms, sewing and craft studio, accessible changing room, two toilets, a hot-desking area, office, a chapel and not forgetting the Cafe. They are currently working on the sensory room and salon. These are all available for rent at reasonable prices.
It has been a very challenging couple of years both physically and financially for the ladies, however they were finally able to open the cafe in July!
“Creative Heart is a welcoming community hub and arts café in the heart of Littlehampton. We are passionate about bringing community together and tackling social isolation and loneliness.
We know that creativity of all kinds is proven to improve mental, emotional and physical health so we are going to provide as many different opportunities as possible for people to join in no matter what their ability, age or background is!”
The work is ongoing so they still need the Community support, if you find you have craft supplies you no longer want, sensory equipment (as they are creating a sensory space) or if you want to give your time as a volunteer you'll be most welcome here. Read on to find out more about volunteering.
Meet the ladies behind creative hearts
Fliss and Claire have run a community craft group called Cre8 in Littlehampton for the last 10 years and creating a community hub has always been a dream of theirs. They have seen many lives transformed through the various groups, events, retreats and activities they have organised over this time and are passionate about bringing people together.
Mary has collaborated with them on retreats and events and shares their love of Littlehampton and community, working for various charities and organisations as well as organising national events.
The Cafe
The Cafe is very reasonably priced with so much choice. If you fancy it they have probably got it, Cake, sandwiches, salad, lasagna, pie and so much more, and also an array of hot and cold drinks such as traditional tea and coffee.
Do you want to volunteer?
There is an array of different roles if you find yourself wanting to volunteer also as
Cafe Team - Do you love customer service and making a perfect cup of tea? If so the cafe team may be the one for you. The cafe is central to Creative Heart, a welcoming space with affordable food and drink. Cafe team volunteers will help with taking orders and delivering food to customers, as well as keeping the cafe clean and tidy.
Cleaning Team - If you're a whizz with a hoover and like making things clean and shiny then this is the team for you. Help us keep Creative Heart clean and covid-safe for everyone who uses it.
Gardening Team - If you have green fingers then this might be the role for you. You will help to plant and maintain the Creative Heart sensory garden, so it can be enjoyed by everyone. You'll also help keep our herbs in top condition so they can be used in the cafe and keep an eye on the plants that live inside the cafe area.
Hosting Team - If you're able to put people at ease and make them feel welcome then this may be the team for you. The hosting team will help when we run community events, groups and spaces, with your help we can create something beautiful! Please note, some roles, such as those with activities for children, may require a DBS check.
Maintenance Team - If you're handy with a paint brush or great at hanging shelves then this could be the team for you. As well as day to day maintenance, we are still improving some of the first floor rooms at Creative Heart, so your DIY and decorating skills will be put to good use.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer follow this link. APPLY
You can find out more about creative hearts at www.creativeheart.org.uk
and if you want to pop in for a cuppa and cake -
Creative Heart Littlehampton CIC
42 Beach Road,
Littlehampton
BN17 5HT
If you would like more info about booking space email - office@creativeheart.org.uk
I hope you have enjoyed My little trip and if you have please subscribe to my Blog and YouTube Channel to see the next posts.
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Happy Making Kelly Anne Jordan xx