A North Staffordshire based community interest company (CIC) has launched a new project to tackle loneliness and support local cafes.

More than 40 venues across the region have signed up to Reaching CIC's new Brew Crew project which aims to tackle loneliness and strengthen community connection, whilst supporting local cafes.

Member cafes will display an orange heart sticker in their window to show that they are participating in the project and that they are a safe and welcoming space for anyone who may be feeling isolated.

Customers can wear orange heart pin badges as a sign they would appreciate a warm welcome in a Brew Crew café, or to show their support for ending loneliness.

This collaboration between the charitable sector and local businesses aims to provide a vital lifeline to individuals in need of connection, while also boosting footfall and revenue for cafés.

A spokesperson for Reaching CIC said: "Hospitality is the beating heart of our communities.

"Local cafes offer so much more than just a drink: they provide welcoming spaces where everyone can belong. Often open when other services are closed, they encourage people to join their community.

"By supporting them through Brew Crew, Reaching helps cafés thrive, keeping these vital spaces alive for all."

More than 40 venues have signed up to the Brew Crew project (image via Reaching CIC)

Georgina Salt, CEO at Reaching CIC said: "Reaching has developed a unique ability to connect people across communities of all ages and backgrounds, grounded in the belief that human relationships have the power to transform how people feel.

"We recognise the vital role that small, welcoming hospitality spaces play in the heart of our high streets, towns, and villages — places where people socially connect with others and have a safe place to be.

"By working together with local small businesses, we're creating a movement of people, places, and compassion, dedicated to tackling loneliness and bringing connection to those who need it most."

In a public statement, Reaching explained that 25% of adults report feeling lonely some or all of the time, and 1 in 8 adults have had suicidal thoughts due to loneliness meaning that connection and friendship are essential for physical and mental health.. 

Reaching has also launched Brew Club, regular meet-ups hosted in Brew Crew cafés with a dedicated volunteer.

During Brew Club meet-ups, anyone can join a table and connect with others, which Reaching hopes will give people the confidence to walk into a café at dedicated times, knowing they'll find conversation and companionship waiting for them.

Reaching relies on donations and sponsorship to fund their projects. Individuals and businesses can become sponsors or find local Brew Crew cafes by visiting the Reaching website here.

Orange heart pin badges are available to purchase from the Reaching website, at the Newcastle-under-Lyme head office and at select Brew Crew cafes.