New weekly community group launches to support people in Ellesmere Port
published on 9 May 2017
A community group, Snack and Chat, has launched at The Salvation Army’s church (corps), in Ellesmere Port with the aim of building relationships with local people and strengthening their connections with the community.
Lieutenant Louise Brown, Salvation Army Church Leader at Ellesmere Port, said: “We run a number of activities here to support the local community but realised that an informal drop in session could make a real difference.
“We run Snack and Chat in partnership with West Cheshire Food bank and it’s for everyone and anyone. It’s an opportunity to build relationships and support each other in taking positive steps forward in life. We aim to help people to realise that they are not alone, and will give them a voice, space to be heard, and time to come up with their own solutions. We believe that there is always hope for every individual to flourish.
“For some it means they’re able to get out of the house and make new friends and for others it’s the stepping stone to getting the advice they need.
“A representative from Citizens Advice and the local advocacy service attends and this is proving particularly successful.
The session is run at the same time as the West Cheshire food bank which also takes place at the corps.
Louise, continued: “It’s a chance to show that someone cares and we can spend time listening to them and understanding why they need help.”
The session also provides volunteering opportunities for local people like Peter Webb who makes the toast and tea which is on offer to everyone who attends.
Gaynor, from Citizens Advice, said: “Snack and Chat has met a need in this community. It’s so welcoming here. There are no barriers. The people who really need advice and help can feel too daunted to visit us in a formal setting but here it’s different. It’s a great idea and it’s already making a real difference.”
Snack and Chat is open every Tuesday between 10am and 12pm.
The Salvation Army in Ellesmere Port runs a number of weekly activities to support local people. To find out more visit https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/ellesmere-port