Apart from living in London for a short while back in the 1970s, Margot has lived in South Birmingham her entire life – “I’m Birmingham born and bred!”. She was a professional opera singer for many years, and still sings in various choirs, such as St. Alban’s Church in Highgate.
Margot and her late partner Jason discovered TAWS early in 2021, when they received free hot meals during lockdowns. When restrictions eased and TAWS began sit-down meals at our community cafés www.theaws.co.uk/big-feed/ Margot and Jason decided to take a trip down to the Spearhead Trust in Druids Heath and enjoy a tasty, healthy, and free meal. They soon began regularly attending every Friday.
“I found the café to be a very positive experience – the food is excellent, it’s healthy and excellent quality. It’s a marvellous place to come and the staff and volunteers are marvellous, I feel so appreciative. It’s a very inclusive space and I have been able to sample foods I wouldn’t normally cook myself, like curries.”
Sadly, in early January 2022, Jason passed away at 96 years old. In Margot’s words – “He was an absolute trooper for his age.” Margot continues to attend café at Spearhead weekly, even the very same week that she lost her partner. Previously she would be driven down by Jason, but she has adjusted her routine and takes two buses to get to Druids Heath despite her mobility issues. She is now a familiar face and regular visitor to the café. She hopes to find a way to volunteer and give some of her time back at some point.
“If you can manage to get out and about and be around people whilst you are grieving, it will help. Bereavement is still such a taboo subject. This café has provided me with a wider support network since Jason died. I talk about and recommend this café to lots of people, and I bring surplus food back for other older people I know who are alone. It also takes away some of the stress of trying to cook for myself!”
Café opening times and locations:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 12 – 1:30pm at All Saints, Herbert Road, Small Heath, B10 0PR
Please note this cafe is open for sit in meals only.
Monday, 12 – 1:30pm and Wednesday 5 – 6:30pm at Highgate Baptist Church, Magnolia House It Centre, Conybere St, B12 0YL
Please note this cafe is open for sit in meals only.
Thursday, and Friday 12 – 1:30pm at The Spearhead Trust, Druids Heath, B14 5QP
Please note this is open for sit in meals only on Thursdays and Fridays.
