Bringing Community Together – One Cup at a Time
Thanks to support from the Pen y Cymoedd, local business The Tea Rooms was able to take their warm, welcoming café experience on the road — piloting a Travelling Tea Room in two villages: Cwmgwrach and Rhigos.
With PyC funding, a part-time staff member was recruited to support the travelling tea room, complemented by additional funding from Aberpergwm Colliery Fund to cover venue hire and marketing. The aim was to test demand for a permanent or community-led offer in under-served areas.
Cwmgwrach: A Quiet Success
- 240 attendees over several months
- Hosted at Cwmgwrach Welfare Hall every Tuesday morning
- Attendees included older residents and local support services (NPT Carers, Warm Wales, Digital Inclusion)
- Partnered with the Chatty Café Scheme to combat loneliness
Despite strong engagement, no local group could take over long-term, and the weekly sessions ended at Easter but still a great project and for us as a business, several regulars now visit The Tea Rooms for breakfast and remain connected.
Rhigos: A Community Reconnected
- 265 attendees over the pilot period
- Wide demographic – from young mums to older residents
- Positive local feedback: “I know so many young mums now – thanks to the coffee mornings!”
- Community council committed to taking it forward
Legacy: Local Rhigos based committee forming to keep it going with donated supplies and equipment from the pilot
Why It Matters
This pilot proved the power of a cuppa and conversation in rebuilding community ties, especially in areas with limited social spaces. While the results varied across villages, the Travelling Tea Room showed that small, supported initiatives can plant the seeds of lasting change.
Pen y Cymoedd is proud to have supported this pilot.
“This was a real asset to local residents – and gave us the opportunity to take The Tea Rooms on the road!”