Through rain or shine (or in this case snow!)
Where has the time gone?
Two years ago today was the opening day for The Hextol Tans coffee shop and vegetarian café here in Hexham.
Over the last two years The Hextol Tans Cafe has gone from strength to strength, and we have supported over forty people with learning disabilities and mental health conditions since we first opened our doors. We also have a number of fantastic volunteer supervisors who support our work every week.
We developed our menu over several months, with a couple of tasting sessions for which we were never short of willing participants! Our vegetarian and vegan menu has proved incredibly popular, and we currently hold the title as the only fully vegetarian café in Hexham. We are constantly trying new recipes and combinations to produce high quality and delicious cooking.
We have built up a loyal customer base and reputation for having great service and a welcoming, friendly environment. We have also run several popular evening events throughout the year, including quiz nights and a Christmas meal. Our next event is a quiz night on Friday 19 October: tickets are £10 per person, which includes hot food and a glass of wine – tickets are on sale at The Hextol Tans Café, but are selling fast!
At The Hextol Foundation our goal is to provide working opportunities for people who have a learning disability or mental health condition.
The Tans is just one of many services we provide which helps us to achieve this. Our other services include gardening, packing and posting, catering and home maintenance and warehousing.
We believe that work is good and that everyone should feel valued.
The Hextol Tans Cafe has been a phenomenal success with regards to the opportunities it offers those we support. Working front of house or in the kitchen, many have seen their confidence improve, gained new job skills and enjoyed the chance to work together with other members of the Hextol team. Some have gone on to paid employment after their time with us as a result of the experience they gained in the Tans.
We are so proud of how well-loved the Tans is, and how successful it has become. Pop in and try some of our delicious food or grab a coffee and a scone.
We can’t wait to see what the next two years bring!
