The challenge
Bistro at Sunspot is located in Jaywick which is among the most deprived neighbourhoods in the UK. In Jaywick and Clacton 16% of people are unemployed and one in three households lives in fuel poverty. Although Jaywick is rich in natural beauty and golden coastlines, physical activity levels are also low.
Transforming the Bistro at Sunspot into community hub represents an excellent opportunity to build place-based resilience and improve wellbeing through community.
What we do
We have worked in Clacton and Jaywick since 2020, providing free bikes, cycle repair and training sessions through Essex Pedal Power. The relationships we have built with communities and local organisations will enable us to become a hub for community engagement and social wellbeing, meeting local needs and co-creating exciting new opportunities with people in Jaywick.
As Bistro at Sunspot is a cafe, food plays an important role in our work. While locals can expect classic cafe menu suited to the beachside, we offer nutritious seasonal menu. Sourcing surplus food from local businesses and organisations reduces food waste, whilst making healthy, affordable meals accessible to everyone.
Eating together is a time old way to build social connection and community. Our communal dining sessions will enable people to get to know one another, take part in new activities and access support. A varied and fun programme co-designed with residents will invite new people in and create more opportunities for community-building—everything from Friday night Fish and Chips, dog walkers’ coffee morning, breakfast clubs and children eat free offers. Friday night takeaway fish and chips, Wednesday children eat free, dog walkers coffee morning and breakfast clubs.
We will deliver social value by connecting our cafe with wider services and activities. This system knitting brings communities together and helps tackle inequalities. We will work with the local communities and businesses to understand where the need is and what they would like to see to co-produce the offer. Activities could include slow cooker clubs, parent groups, social evenings, skill-sharing sessions and taster sessions for physical activities such as tai chi and yoga. Our person-centred approach enable cafe visitors to develop skills, social connections and improve their overall wellbeing.
For more information on catering from hot meals to finger buffets; please contact us via info@theaws.org
For general enquiries about Bistro at Sunspot, contact Stacey Dommett at stacey.dommett@theaws.org
“Due to its central location in Jaywick, Sunspot Café presents an exciting opportunity for residents, allowing us to continue to expand upon the great links we’ve built with Essex Pedal Power to local communities. Acting as a base for cyclists, including volunteer-led group rides, to meet and get refreshments with a sea view backdrop, we envision the café not just as a place to eat, but as a cornerstone of community life.”
