'We hope to raise a smile': Friendship cafe launches in Walsall

Harjit Singh, the owner of the Nisa Local in High Heath, has opened the High Heath Hub, with the aim of developing the community spirit.

A number of volunteers have come forward to make a difference with the aim of creating a safe, happy and healthy community, and meet up on a regular basis to steer the direction in which the hub evolves.

High Heath Hub aims to tackle isolation and loneliness, engage with youngsters to encourage entrepreneurship, and develop a database of local trusted traders to ensure that consumers are getting the best value and the pound is kept in Shelfield.

At the moment, it is open on a Monday and Wednesday from 10.30am - 2pm.

Every first Monday of the month, from 1pm - 4pm, they will have John Morris from Walsall Counci, and litter picks are organised once a month.

Mr Singh said: "The creation of the hub has seen the development of relationships with local businesses who are keen to support us.

"Steak, Rattle and Roll gives us the space to hold the friendship cafe on Wednesdays, along with the occasional surprise of free food, Travis Perkins have kindly donated some of the fittings for the hub, NV roofing have given us a donation towards the development of the activities.

"South Staffs Water are using the hub to advice the community on how to make cost savings.

"Don’t sit on your own, come along for a free coffee and chat on a Monday and Wednesday from 10.30am - 2pm. There is no pressure on people to do things that they are not comfortable with.

"We hope to have a smile, coffee and a listening ear when you pop in."