Community cafe in desperate need of a new home

Kirsty’s community cafe has been forced to relocate.

Now she fears it could soon serve its last meal and thousands of families will go without.

“For many people if they’re not here, and they’re not shopping here, they’re not eating,” she said.

Watch the full story in the player above.

Statement from Liverpool City Council

Community Café provides an important service to vulnerable members of the 2168 community, and Council is committed to supporting its continued operation.Liverpool City Council has provided ongoing assistance to Community Café, including a heavily discounted rental arrangement and operational support. When asbestos was identified during renovation works intended to improve the facility, Council acted quickly to secure temporary accommodation, so the service could continue operating within the 2168 post code. While albeit not under ideal circumstances this was the most appropriate immediate solution to ensure continuity of support for the community.The relocation has enabled Community Café to remain operational while permanent issues are addressed, which is a significantly better outcome than a disruption to services altogether. Council is continuing to work closely with the operators to expedite repairs and return them to a suitable long-term facility as quickly as possible. This includes addressing issues at the temporary site, such as a leaking roof, which is scheduled for repair by the end of the week, weather permitting.As with all users of Council’s community facilities, Community Café has been invited to submit an Expression of Interest for a five-year lease.

These submissions will be assessed in accordance with Council’s standard processes.In the interim, Community Café will not be displaced, and Council remains committed to working collaboratively with the operators to resolve current matters and support the continuation of this vital community service.