A warm, welcoming space to talk, listen and feel understood

Grief can feel overwhelming - and it can often feel lonely too. St Helena's Community Bereavement Cafés offer a gentle, relaxed space where anyone who has been bereaved can come together for a cuppa, a chat, or simply the comfort of being with others who understand. You’re welcome to share as much or as little as feels right for you.

Each month, our trained staff and volunteers are on hand to offer compassionate listening, reassurance and support. Whether your loss is recent or many years ago, you are warmly invited to join us. Sometimes the simple act of being alongside people who ‘get it’ can make the biggest difference.

A graphic of two cups of tea clinking over text that says bereavement cafe

Who can come?

The café is free to attend and open to anyone in the local community who has experienced a bereavement, regardless of when their loss occurred or whether they have been supported by St Helena before.

You’re welcome just as you are - whether you’d like to talk, listen, reflect quietly or enjoy understanding conversation and company.

Please note that booking is not necessary – feel free to drop in on the day. If you’re not sure whether the cafés are right for you, please do get in touch - we’re happy to talk through what to expect.

By phone: 01206 984274 
By email: ces-coordinators@sthelena.org.uk

Find a Bereavement Café

Walton on the Naze:

Every 1st Friday of the month - 10.30am - 12.00pm  

34 Newgate Street, Walton on the Naze CO14 8AL

Elmstead Market:

Every 2nd Monday of the month - 2pm - 3:30pm  

Elmstead Market Community Centre, School Road, Elmstead Market CO7 7ET

Frinton:

Every 2nd Monday of the month - 10.30am - 12.00pm  

Frinton on Sea Community Association, Soken House, The Triangle, Frinton on Sea CO13 0AU

Colchester - Highwoods:

Every 2nd Thursday of the month - 6:00pm to 7:30pm
&
Every 3rd Wednesday of the month - 10:30am to 12:00pm

St Helena Hospice, The Lounge, Joan Tomkins Centre, Myland Hall, Barncroft Close, Highwoods, Colchester 
CO4 9JU

West Bergholt:

Every 4th Tuesday of the month - 2:00pm to 3:30pm

St Marys Church Hall, West Bergholt
CO6 3JZ

Is this counselling?

Do I need to book?

Can I refer someone else?

What happens at the café?

Who runs the café?

Do I need to have been supported by St Helena to come?

Does it cost anything?

What if I’m nervous about attending?