Coffee Cart Project Supporting Mental Health Recovery at St Cadoc's Hospital
A heart-warming partnership between Growing Space and Aneurin Bevan University Health Board (ABUHB) is transforming lives through the Coffee Cart Vocational Skills Project, a unique initiative supporting individuals on their mental health recovery journey, based at St Cadoc’s Hospital Headquarters.
Launched in December 2024, the Coffee Cart Project has grown into a vibrant hub of learning and empowerment. Operating three days a week, the cart provides opportunities for individuals with mental health needs to gain hands-on experience in:
- Barista training
- Customer service experience
- Food hygiene and health & safety awareness
- Money handling skills
- CV writing and marketing support
- Accredited qualifications via Adult Learning Wales
Participants begin with one-to-one support from staff member Niamh, gradually transitioning to team-based work to build confidence and social skills. So far, the cart has welcomed 14 individuals, each making significant strides in their recovery journey.
One participant, referred to as Jason, joined the project following occupational therapy support to help build confidence and improve communication. Before joining, Jason struggled with social interaction and isolation. Through his time at the cart and involvement in other Growing Space groups, he not only mastered barista skills but also overcame his fear of speaking to strangers and working in a team.
“It’s definitely a massive confidence boost and has helped me improve my communication skills and working with others. It’s ok to make mistakes, it’s how you learn.
The cart has given me a lot more confidence for my next step, which is attending college. The cart has also helped me conquer my anxiety leaving the house and in accessing the community.”
— Jason, Coffee Cart participant
Carly Pollock, Occupational Therapy Support Worker, added:
“The Coffee Cart has been so valuable in Jason’s recovery. He will be missed when moving onto college. I believe the skills Jason has developed through the Coffee Cart have positively contributed to him feeling able to enrol on his course.”
The project’s success is evident not only in individual stories but also in its growing presence across ABUHB. Teams across the Health Board now invite the cart to provide hot drinks at meetings and events, further raising its profile.
Sustainability is also a key focus, with recyclable cups and encouragement for customers to bring their own. Even empty milk cartons have found new life in art projects at other sites.
Lucy Goodwin, Joint Professional Head of Occupational Therapy for Adult Mental Health, commented:
“Employment is one of the most significant factors influencing life expectancy and overall quality of life, yet individuals with mental health needs continue to face disproportionately low employment rates.
Occupational therapists play a vital role in supporting people to build the skills needed to secure and sustain meaningful work.
The Coffee Cart is a fantastic joint initiative with Growing Space that offers far more than just practical training, it provides a nurturing space where individuals can rebuild their confidence, foster meaningful relationships, and take positive steps toward a brighter future.
Seeing participants, like Jason, flourish, is a powerful reflection of the impact and importance of this work.”
This inspiring collaboration is a shining example of how community-based initiatives can make a real difference - one coffee at a time.
For more information, visit Growing Space - Mental Health Training Wales
