Young people in Orkney are stepping up to combat loneliness in their communities by organising cosy cafe get-togethers, offering warmth, food, and companionship to anyone in need of a friendly space this winter.
Building on the success of last year’s Young Scot Youth Loneliness Bubble Tea project, the West Mainland Youth Achievement Groups are hosting a community cafe at Stromness Community Centre on Friday 31 January from 5pm-7pm, with a second event planned for February.
The initiative is driven by two youth groups—the Dynamic Youth Group (ages 10-14) and the West Mainland Youth Achievement Group (ages 14+)—who are keen to extend the reach of their previous work by creating welcoming, inclusive spaces where people of all ages can come together.
A Night Of Community And Connection
Visitors to the cosy cafe can expect free food, crafts, board games, and inclusive hall games, all designed to encourage social interaction and combat isolation, which can be especially tough during Orkney’s long winter months.
The menu includes soup, baked tatties with a variety of fillings, sandwiches, tea, coffee, juice, and home baking, catering to different dietary needs (with no nut products included).
Karen Bevan, Youth and Family Learning Worker for Community Learning, Development and Employability, is encouraging people of all ages to come along, whether they’re looking for company, fun activities, or just a warm cuppa.
“Everyone is welcome—whether you’re coming on your own or with family, young or old,” she said.
“People can take part in as much or as little as they like.
“It’s all about bringing folk together, especially those who may be feeling isolated.”
Young People Driving Change
The events are being funded by the Orkney Youth Local Action Group (YLAG), which empowers young people to decide how money is allocated to projects that tackle important issues in their communities.
Karen highlighted that many of the young organisers had been involved in the Bubble Tea project and had been eager to develop a follow-up initiative.
“We were lucky enough to receive grant funding from YLAG last week, so now we can make this happen,” she said.
“It’s brilliant to see young people coming up with these ideas and putting in the effort to make a real difference.”
Some of the Young Scot Youth Loneliness project members are also getting involved, further strengthening the impact of youth-led initiatives in Orkney.
More Than Just A Cafe
YLAG plays a crucial role in funding projects that help young people thrive, with a focus on:
- Community development – Giving young people a voice in decision-making.
- Education – Supporting personal growth and mental wellbeing.
- Recreation – Funding fun and meaningful activities to improve quality of life.
- Equality and diversity – Ensuring representation for all young people in Orkney.
The group is supported by a facilitator and a member of the OIC Community Led Local Development Team, ensuring projects are well-organised and effectively delivered.
Karen hopes the events will encourage as many people as possible to get involved.
“Please come along if you can,” she said.
“Not only will you be supporting the young people who have worked hard to organise this, but we hope you’ll find joy in meeting others, sharing a blether, and enjoying some good food—all for free.”