A NEW friendship and bereavement cafe has been opened in Harwich.

Community Voluntary Services Tendring (CVST) has launched the cafe, thanks to a Tendring Council grant.

The new group will mirror the successful groups in Clacton, Jaywick and Walton, and aims to provide a safe and supportive environment where bereaved and isolated people from any age group can make new friendships and access services, therapies and guidance.

Volunteers have been recruited and trained and will be running the group with support from CVST staff.

The cafe will involve guest speakers, craft activities, refreshments and outings, and will be held at the Masonic Hall, in Main Road.

Volunteers range from an engineer and Border Force officer to a former district nurse.

The skills and experience of the people involved is diverse and vast, and will add an excellent dynamic.

Chairman Brenda Ellis said there was currently a gap in the district for a bereavement and friendship group.

“We carried out a survey last year and 42 per cent of people who responded said that they would like to see a service provided for those feeling isolated and lonely,” she said.

“This is a brand new initiative and it would not have been possible without the money we have received from the council.

"It will not only be for those who are recently bereaved, but all those who are still suffering.”

The weekly group started Monday, September 26 and runs from 10.30am to noon.

For more details, call Matt Rozier on 01255 425 692.