Free bereavement café opens at the Salvation Army in Gorse Hill

A weekly drop-in for people who have lost someone is running at the Salvation Army community centre on Chapel Street in Gorse Hill, Swindon24 reported on Saturday 10 October 2026. The Friendship, Hope and Healing Bereavement Café first opened on Friday 18 September.

When is it open?

Every Friday from 10am to 12.30pm. It is free, and there is no need to book. Tea and biscuits are provided.

Who is it for?

Anyone who has been bereaved, however long ago. Visitors can share memories, talk about what they have been through, or simply have a drink and some company. Nobody is pressed to talk about their loss.

Why was it set up?

According to the report, the idea came from a man whose partner died unexpectedly. He faced long waits for support elsewhere, and staff at the centre spent several weeks supporting him. The report said some hospice bereavement services are limited to families whose relative was cared for by that hospice, and that other support groups are in West Swindon, Royal Wootton Bassett and Marlborough.

The café is led by Captain Theresa Torr, who leads the Salvation Army in Gorse Hill. She said: "Grief has no timetable. Loss happens to all of us and we react to it in different ways."

Hayley Purnell, the Community Centre Manager, said: "We are not counsellors, but we are experienced in offering a warm welcome, practical support, and compassionate listening."

More from Swindo: support groups in Swindon and Gorse Hill.

Source: Swindon24.